A number of studies suggest that loneliness contributes to cognitive decline. However, there is also contradictory evidence.

A number of studies suggest that loneliness contributes to cognitive decline. However, there is also contradictory evidence.

Sample: 10 217 participants aged 65 to 94.

Over seven years, participants completed a memory assessment using a 10-word list, and also answered three questions about loneliness - How often do you feel a lack of companionship? How often do you feel left out? How often do you feel isolated from others?

Shown: subjective loneliness is associated with lower memory performance at the start of the study, but subjective loneliness is not associated with the rate of decline over time. Lonely people were more likely to score lower on memory at initial assessments, but their subsequent rate of decline was the same as that of people who did not consider themselves lonely. Older adults, women, and those with health problems reported loneliness more often.

Like if you’re glad that scientists have given you permission to be lonely!

Link to an article.