Loneliness: a risk factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease

Ace experts stress importance of preventing social isolation as key preventive measure against dementia

INFORMATIVE NOTE

Barcelona, ​​March 10, 2025

• Unwanted loneliness limits opportunities for socialization, cognitive practice and language stimulation, increasing the risk of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
• Experts from Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona highlight the importance of preventing social isolation as a key preventive measure against dementia and offer practical advice to avoid loneliness in patients.

Feeling lonely is not the same as being lonely. Social isolation is a measurable reality -the objective lack of human contact- and loneliness is a subjective perception: a feeling of disconnection and emptiness that, although surrounded by people, can seriously affect the individual's mental and cognitive health. This phenomenon, known as unwanted loneliness, has become a growing problem in our society, with serious implications for emotional and cognitive health.

Recent studies have shown that unwanted loneliness is a significant risk factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. According to data from the “Barometer of unwanted loneliness in Spain 2024”, one in five people in Spain experience unwanted loneliness, and two out of three of these people have been in this situation for more than two years. This is undoubtedly aggravated by social isolation, which reduces opportunities for social interaction and cognitive stimulation, fundamental elements for keeping the brain active and preventing degenerative diseases.

In addition, the link between isolation and cognitive decline is supported by research showing how lack of social interaction impoverishes vocabulary, reduces cognitive flexibility and accelerates brain deterioration. “Social isolation is a significant risk factor in the development of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Although it is not a direct cause, loneliness reduces opportunities to practice cognitive and language skills essential to keep the brain in shape,” says Dr. Liliana Vargas, a geriatrician in the Diagnostic Unit of Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona.

In this context, initiatives such as those carried out by the Ace team are essential to mitigate this unwanted loneliness and its impact on health. Through group therapy programs, cognitive stimulation and support, they seek to improve the quality of life of people with dementia and slow the progression of the disease. With this same premise, Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona proposes a series of practical tips aimed at caregivers and families, as well as the elderly or people at risk of Alzheimer's disease, to avoid loneliness:

• Participate in group activities: it is recommended to participate in memory workshops, reading clubs and group exercise classes to not only stimulate the mind, but also promote socialization and even improve physical health.
• Leverage technology to stay in touch: video calls and WhatsApp groups are key tools for connecting with family and friends, especially in cases where mobility is limited.
• Create a social routine: scheduling regular activities, such as morning walks, shopping, etc. helps to structure the day and incorporate moments of interaction with other people.
• Strengthen family ties: including the patient in family gatherings or making regular visits helps to maintain constant contact and reduce isolation.
• Seek professional support: turning to specialized entities, such as Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, can provide group therapies and support programs designed for people at risk of dementia.

Marian's case: when loneliness aggravates Alzheimer's disease

Marian, a patient at Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, clearly represents how loneliness can affect cognitive health. After long years of isolation, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. “It's harder for me to think because I've been alone for so long,” confesses this patient who currently attends the Ace Alzheimer Center to receive therapy and find the necessary accompaniment.

Since participating in cognitive stimulation and socialization programs, she has experienced significant improvements. “Every day that Marian is in the company of people, her quality of life is extended and the progression of her disease slows down,” explains Dr. Vargas.

“Alzheimer's still has no cure, but prevention and comprehensive care can make a difference in the progression of the disease. Strengthening social relationships and combating isolation is not only a social priority, but also a fundamental tool in the fight against this devastating disease” he stresses.

Factors associated with loneliness

According to the Dementia in Europe Yearbook 2024 report, which this year focuses on independent living and housing for people with dementia, the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding the disease can exacerbate social isolation. In it, some diagnosed people share their testimony and note that, despite leading normal lives, they feel they are treated differently and that this makes it difficult for them to stay integrated in the community. Some perceive alienation from friends or neighbors and note that they are afraid to interact with them. This disconnection not only reinforces loneliness, but can negatively impact their health and well-being.

According to recent studies, the impact of unwanted loneliness varies according to multiple factors, including educational level, health status and economic conditions. People living alone are twice as likely to experience loneliness as those living with others, and the prevalence is significantly higher among those who perceive their health status as poor or very poor. In addition, half of people with mental health problems experience unwanted loneliness.

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