Ageing, Alzheimer's, MS and Parkinson's - Social connection and ageing Flashcards
(10 cards)
Why is social connection important for health?
Social connection is a powerful anti-inflammatory and has lifelong impacts on health, especially for children and the elderly.
How does poor childhood social connection affect health later in life?
It predisposes individuals to inflammatory diseases in later life.
What impact does social connection have on elderly individuals?
It improves BMI, blood pressure, and inflammation — comparable to smoking cessation or exercise.
What does social stress do to the body?
It worsens inflammation and increases chronic disease risk.
Who benefits most from strong social connections?
Children and the elderly.
What are physiological benefits of social interaction?
Reduces inflammatory markers and improves overall health outcomes.
How does social connection relate to longevity?
Increased social connection is linked to longer life expectancy and better resilience against age-related decline.
What systems in the body are improved by social bonding?
The immune, cardiovascular, and neuroendocrine systems.
What neurochemical is involved in the benefits of social bonding?
Oxytocin, which has anti-inflammatory effects.
Can social enrichment reduce inflammation in the brain?
Yes, through the vagus nerve, oxytocin can suppress microglia-related brain inflammation.
