Holiday Edition: The Overlooked Longevity Benefit of Social Connection
By Dr. Amy Chhadia, MD
Every year around this time, my girlfriends and I gather for a light-hearted white-elephant dinner and gift exchange. Some years, it felt impossible to squeeze it in, especially when my kids were younger and the season was packed with school performances, baking exchanges, and last-minute errands.
But I’ve always protected this tradition, and every year it reminds me of how powerful it is to simply be around people who make you feel connected. My friends show up fully: one opens her beautifully decorated home, another organizes a meaningful charitable donation we all contribute to, and another documents the night with hilarious, belly-laugh-inducing photos that become part of our shared history.
No matter how busy the season gets, this simple ritual leaves me feeling clearer, lighter, and mentally recharged.
And it turns out - the neuroscience strongly supports why.
Why Social Connection Matters for Brain Longevity
Social connection isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s biologically protective. Here’s what the research shows:
Harvard SHARE cognitive aging study: Higher social integration is linked to better memory trajectories over 8 years.
Nature Mental Health meta-analysis (2024): Loneliness is associated with a significantly higher risk of dementia in more than 600,000 people.
Longitudinal neuroimaging study (~2,000 adults, age 50–82): Social isolation predicted hippocampal atrophy, reduced cortical thickness, and worse memory and processing speed over ~6 years.
JMIR Aging research: Even digital forms of connection — video calls, online groups, virtual social activities — correlate with better cognitive function and slower decline.
Taken together, these findings reinforce something simple but profound: your relationships are part of your longevity plan.
Actionable Ways to Support Your Brain This Holiday Season
Reach out intentionally: One call, text, or coffee invite can positively shift both your cognitive and emotional state - not to mention the recipient’s.
Attend at least one gathering: Even if you’re feeling low-energy (or braving the subzero temps in Chicago winter).
Blend connection with stimulation: Cook together, play games, share stories, or exchange books.
Treat social health like sleep, nutrition, and exercise: Make it a vital sign worth measuring and optimizing.
A Closing Thought
The holidays give us meaningful moments to reinforce the connections that keep our brains resilient. Even a short interaction with someone who truly sees you can leave a lasting effect.
This season, consider: who’s on your mind to reach out to?
Wishing you a holiday filled with warmth, laughter, and cognitive nourishment.