Loneliness Might Be Just as Dangerous for the Brain as Not Exercising It

We talk a lot about puzzles and brain games for keeping our minds sharp.

But here's something researchers want us to know: loneliness might be just as dangerous for the brain as not exercising it.

A major analysis funded by the National Institute on Aging looked at data from over 600,000 people. The finding? Loneliness increased the risk for dementia by 31% - a magnitude similar to the impact of being physically inactive or smoking.

The brain needs conversation. It needs to be surprised by a new idea, to laugh at something unexpected, to feel heard.

The problem? Many of our parents spend hours every day without a single meaningful conversation.

If you can't call every day (and most of us can't - life is busy, and guilt doesn't help anyone), think about what small connections might help. A weekly video call. A voice message. A neighbor who stops by. A relative who texts.

The brain doesn't need perfection. It just needs connection.