This is thought to be because staying social helps lower stress, making us more resilient to life’s challenges. Chronic stress on the other hand, has been linked to the loss of neurons in the hippocampus. “The protective factor is the ability to discuss, to debate, to share ideas. Those conversations can be protective for the brain as well,” says Pamela Almeida-Meza, an epidemiologist at King’s College London.
When we interact with others we are using numerous parts of the brain, from language, to memory to forward planning. “There’s a cognitive mentally stimulating aspect. So that might promote brain health, but we also know that having good social connections reduces a range of physiological stressors,” says Gow. (Read more about how friendships can make you healthier.)
Early education is linked with long-term brain health, but continuing learning throughout life also gives the brain a boost.
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