Did You Know Social Connections Can Improve Your Brain Health?

There have been many studies done on the link between healthy aging and diet, exercise and a good night’s sleep, but researchers say not as much attention has been paid to the role socialization has on healthy aging. Recent studies have now found that strong social ties are just as critical to our brain health. 

While most of us enjoy a night out with friends talking and laughing, scientists say the time we spend socializing also helps stimulate our attention and memory as well as strengthen our neural networks. In fact they say cognitive decline is more likely to occur in people who spend most of their time alone. One such study with more than 12,000 participants, “suggests that when people are lonely, their risk of dementia rises by as much as 40%.”

However researchers say it is important to remember not all relationships are equal and stressful, toxic relationships can actually be harmful to our health according to a 2021 Journal of the American Heart Association study. To widen your range of social connections, experts say you may have to be creative. If you can’t get out, explore online connections including hooking up with family and friends on facebook as well as joining online groups such as book clubs, choral groups or others. 

At MorningStar of Arvada, our senior living community flourishes on connections, and residents enjoy socializing as much or as little as they like. Our range of activities, special events and wellness programs along with restaurant-style dining makes it easy to find new friends and acquaintances. In the heart of scenic Arvada and surrounded by historic Golden and the nearby Arvada reservoir, our home offers 112 bright independent and assisted living suites in spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans (some as large as 1374 square feet). 

For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood provides 29 secure suites devoted entirely to individualized, specialized care. Visit our website to learn more about all-inclusive independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.