New research reveals that maintaining an active social life in later years could significantly delay the onset of dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, followed nearly 2,000 older adults over almost seven years, tracking their social activities and cognitive health.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that seniors with the most active social life developed dementia an average of five years later than their less socially engaged peers. The study measured participation in common activities such as attending religious services, volunteering, visiting friends and joining group activities.
During the study period, 28% of participants developed dementia, while 49% developed MCI, an early stage of memory loss. The…