A good friendship affects oursMood positiveout of. But real friends who listen can also promote brain health. At least that's what the results of a new study suggest. The study, which was recently carried out inJama Network Open Journalpublished focused on cognitive health.
Promote brain health: This is how good friends can help
Previous studies have already shown that loneliness significantly impairs cognitive abilities. And vice versa: poor cognitive skills more often lead to loneliness.
The new study found that listening can improve cognitive skills. A friend who can understand your problems helps promote neurogenesis and improve synaptic plasticity. A good friendship keeps our brains fit for life.
The researchers believe that the neurons that the brain uses to regulate listening contain amino acids that can “repair” the brain. These neurons are also closely linked to the production of the hormone oxytocin.
A good listener can not only offer support in bad times, but also help us when we are doing well.
Researchers find a connection between brain health and the social environment
ImFramework of the study2,171 adults aged 63 and over were examined. The researchers assessed their cognitive abilities and looked at two important factors in particular: brain volume and general cognitive score. They also used magnetic resonance imaging to better research the subjects' brain regions.
The scientists found that people who had good listeners among their family or friends were less at risk of Alzheimer's and dementia than those who did not have good listeners among their friends. Emotional support had no effect on the brain.
Although a good listener cannot influence the lifespan of his friends, he can at least influence theirsBrains fithold. The study results could help in the development of new therapies against Alzheimer's and provide another option for prophylaxis.
