Many factors affect social interaction in the later years, such as retirement, physical illness, and cessation of driving. Children are usually grown and busy with their own lives. But cognitive decline also affects relationships and activities. In fact, changes in the social lives of seniors might be a sign of early cognitive decline.
New study findings
A recent study examined the data from a large survey of 62- to 90-year old Americans living in the community. Part of the survey included a cognitive assessment, and participants were categorized as having normal function, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. Social relationships were assessed by the size of the social network, social resources, and social engagement. They determined whether those with early cognitive impairment affected social function.
Study participants with MCI or dementia had less community involvement but also less social strain. Women reported less social support. Conversely, men had more social involvement with neighbors and family.
The difference between men and women was very interesting. As cognition declined, men appeared to become more reliant on others, whereas women tended to become more isolated. Lead author Ashwin A. Kotwal, M.D., speculated that this could also be due to a tendency for people to check in more on men with cognitive decline than they do with women.
The authors concluded that recognizing that social changes may occur as a result of alterations in cognition can help “identify social vulnerabilities to ease the transition to overt dementia for both patients and caregivers.”
People need one another at any age
Sharing thoughts, ideas, experiences, support and laughter with friends is a basic human need at any age. For seniors with and without dementia, social interaction is essential for keeping the mind as sharp as possible, preventing loneliness and depression, and as a safety net in case of emergencies.
Caregivers who notice a change in their loved one’s social life might consider suggesting a medical evaluation be performed to rule out dementia. If cognitive impairment is known, additional social support will be needed. Women with cognitive impairment are at particular risk for isolation.
Patients with mild cognitive impairment can still reach out to others. Most communities have senior centers that provide memory care and social events. Even simply getting outdoors provides some level of social contact. Social media and video calls can facilitate social interaction for the homebound.
After all, it’s never too late to make new friends.
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About the author
Dana Connolly, Ph.D., is a senior staff writer for Sovereign Health, where she translates current research into practical information. She earned her Ph.D. in research and theory development from New York University and has decades of experience in clinical care, medical research and health education. Sovereign Health is a health information resource, and Dr. Connolly helps to ensure excellence in our model. For more information and other inquiries about this article, contact the author at news@sovhealth.com.
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