Loneliness in older adults can often lead to memory impairment
Summary
A six-year study of over 10,000 older adults in Europe found that feelings of loneliness are linked to lower initial memory performance but do not speed up memory decline over time. Factors like age, depression, chronic illness, and physical activity also affect memory in older people.Key Facts
- Researchers followed 10,217 adults aged 65 to 94 from 12 European countries for six years.
- Lonely older adults scored lower on immediate and delayed memory tests at the start.
- The rate of memory decline was similar between lonely and non-lonely participants.
- Memory decline became faster after age 75, and even more after age 85.
- Depression and diseases like diabetes lowered memory test scores.
- Moderate or vigorous physical activity once a month improved initial memory scores.
- Loneliness is linked to less social interaction, higher depression, and more health issues, which can affect memory.
- The number of older adults worldwide is expected to rise greatly by 2050, increasing challenges related to dementia and brain health.
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