Research: Helping others slows brain aging

The study, carried out by researchers from the University of Texas in Austin in collaboration with the University of Massachusetts in Boston, followed more than 30 thousand adults in the United States for about 20 years. The data shows that participants who used to help others outside the family framework experienced a slower decline in memory, attention and general thinking abilities, compared to those who did not take part in this type of activity.

According to the results of the study, published in the scientific journal Social Science & Medicine, even a moderate amount of activity – about two to four hours a week – was associated with a reduction of about 15% to 20% in the rate of cognitive decline. The researchers point out that this is not a momentary or short-term effect, but a cumulative process, which intensified as the social behavior continued over the years.

A particularly prominent aspect of the research is the distinction between formal volunteering, such as activity in associations or institutions, and informal daily assistance – helping neighbors, accompanying relatives, assistance with transportation, child care or support with routine tasks. The data shows that both types of activity contributed to brain health to a similar extent, a finding that challenges the notion that only organized volunteering has health value.

According to the researchers, the explanation for this likely lies in a combination of several factors: strengthening the sense of meaning and self-worth, maintaining active social relationships, continuous cognitive stimulation and reducing the feeling of loneliness – all factors known to have an impact on brain function in old age. In addition, previous studies indicate a link between social activity and reducing chronic stress and inflammation in the body, biological processes that have been linked to the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s.

The researchers relied on data from a large-scale national database that monitors the health, social and economic status of citizens over the age of 50. Even after variables such as education, income, physical and mental health status were neutralized, the relationship between social giving and the slowing down of cognitive decline remained distinct. On the other hand, it was found that complete withdrawal from social involvement was accompanied by an acceleration of cognitive decline processes.

The findings have broad significance in the context of public health policy, especially against the background of the increase in life expectancy and the increase in the number of elderly people in the world. The researchers emphasize that even older people who face physical limitations can contribute to their environment in different ways, and that it is the act itself – and not the scope – that may be a protective factor for the brain.