A new study has revealed that loneliness may directly contribute to memory loss, while regular social interaction strengthens the brain’s ability to retain information.
The research highlights how meaningful social engagement is not only crucial for mental health but also essential for long-term memory preservation.
Experts at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have identified a strong connection between social engagement and brain health. Their study focused on the hippocampus, a region of the brain that plays a key role in forming and maintaining memories.
Researchers discovered that a specific sub-region within the hippocampus, known as CA2, becomes active during social interactions. This part then sends signals to another region called CA1, which supports the long-term storage of memories.
Blocking CA2 activity weakens memory boost
During the experiment, scientists temporarily blocked the activity of CA2 neurons to observe changes in memory response. The result was striking — when CA2 was inhibited, the memory-boosting effects of social interaction completely disappeared.
This discovery suggests that social engagement directly triggers neurological processes that strengthen memory, proving that loneliness and social isolation have measurable effects on brain function.
Effects of loneliness on brain
The study also revealed that the positive effects of social contact are temporary, meaning regular interaction is necessary to maintain brain health. Prolonged loneliness, on the other hand, can increase the risk of memory impairment and even dementia.
According to the researchers, social connections stimulate a special protein in the brain that enhances memory. However, when social engagement decreases, the levels of this protein decline, weakening memory function over time.
Medical experts emphasized that loneliness and social isolation are not just emotional issues but also biological risk factors linked to psychological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. They recommend making social activities an integral part of daily life.
According to the NUS team, fostering environments that encourage community involvement and communication can help reduce the chances of memory loss, particularly among elderly individuals or those with weaker nervous systems.
