Although memory impairment is common as we age and usually is not a sign of a serious neurological disorder, it can be frustrating and socially embarrassing. The minor memory lapses that occur with age-associated memory impairment can't be eliminated completely; however, a number of strategies can improve overall memory at any age.
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A recent study in the American Journal of Public Health (Volume 98, page 1221) suggests that having a large social network may preserve cognitive function and stave off dementia among elderly women.
A study of 2,249 women ages 78 and older who were free of dementia at the study's outset were monitored for signs of dementia for four years. To assess the women's cognitive status, the researchers conducted an interview requesting tasks such as counting backwards from 20 to 1 and naming objects and concepts. The women were classified as having dementia, no or minimal impairment, or possible impairment.
To assess the size of the women's active social networks (family and friendship ties), the researchers asked each woman how many relatives/friends she saw or spoke with at least once per month, how many she could ask for help, and how many she could speak with about private matters.
Having a large social network reduced the risk of developing dementia by 26%, even after age, education, presence of depression, and other health conditions were taken into account. However, it is possible that early dementia was not detected in the assessment, and that the very early dementia was responsible for the smaller social network size.
Strong social ties may facilitate better access to health care and healthy behaviors that forestall brain deterioration and other conditions that affect cognitive function.
