The Impact of Loneliness and Social Isolation on Cognitive Aging: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Social concepts such as loneliness and social isolation are fairly new factors that have been recently gaining attention as to their involvement in changes in cognitive function and association with dementia. The primary aim of this narrative review was to describe the current understanding of how loneliness and social isolation influence cognitive aging and how they are linked to dementia. Studies have shown that there is an association between loneliness, social isolation, and reduced cognitive function, in older adults, across multiple cognitive domains, as well as a heightened risk of dementia. Numerous changes to underlying neural biomechanisms including cortisol secretion and brain volume alterations (e.g., white/grey matter, hippocampus) may contribute to these relationships. However, due to poor quality research, mixed and inconclusive findings, and issues accurately defining and measuring loneliness and social isolation, more consistent high-quality interventions are needed to determine whether studies addressing loneliness and social isolation can impact longer term risk of dementia. This is especially important given the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social isolation in older people is yet to be fully understood.

The association between loneliness and mental health disorders in older people after the COVID-19 pandemic

“…With the pandemic, a new paradigm emerged worldwide, with everyday physical distancing taking its toll, signi cantly impacting adults aged 65 and above. Social isolation can promote feelings of loneliness and, especially when recurrent, can exacerbate mental health problems and disturbances in overall well-being [34].…”

Exploring the personality and relationship factors that mediate the connection between differentiation of self and phubbing

“…Notably, the impact of DoS extends to various emotions and significant relationships. One study found that individuals who have difficulties establishing clear boundaries between “self” and “other” and engage in emotionally detached relationships with parents are more susceptible to parent-related loneliness 24 . Another study noted significant associations between DoS, loneliness, and divorce inclination.…”