Social isolation
Loneliness and lack of social contact increase dementia risk by about 50%.
Why it matters
Social interaction exercises the brain, reduces stress hormones, and provides the emotional support needed to maintain other healthy habits.
What to ask at the checkup
Ask about social engagement and whether community programs or group activities would help
Screening: Self-reported weekly social contact
Sources
Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet Commission
Livingston G, Huntley J, Liu KY et al.. The Lancet, 2024.
Fourteen things people can change account for nearly half of dementia cases at the population level.
Social relationships and risk of dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal cohort studies
Kuiper JS, Zuidersma M, Oude Voshaar RC et al.. Ageing Research Reviews, 2015.
People with little social contact had about half again as much dementia risk as those who stayed connected.
Routines for this factor
Call one friend or relative today
Pick up the phone and have a real conversation with someone.
10 min, difficulty 1/3
Step outside and say hello to a neighbor
Walk to a neighbor's door or wave from the yard.
5 min, difficulty 1/3
Attend one group activity this week
Go to a church group, a club meeting, a class, or a community event.
60 min, difficulty 2/3