It might be hard to admit to feeling lonely, but research finds that people are increasingly isolated, and that loneliness is harmful to your health. We tend to have busy lives, and time with others is an area that often gets cut back as a result. In a large-scale study, researcher Julianne Holt-Lunstad found that social integration is a stronger contributor to longevity than exercise, or quitting smoking or alcohol. Social integration means face-to-face interactions, even with strangers. Research also shows that ​in older people, social engagement is related to a higher level of cognitive function. 

​The Global Council on Brain Health makes several recommendations, including:

• Maintain social connections with people of different ages, including younger people.
• Add a new relationship or social activity you didn’t try before. Place yourself in everyday contexts where you can meet and interact with others (e.g., stores or parks).
• Be active and challenge yourself to try out organized clubs, courses, interest groups, political organizations, religious gatherings, or cooking classes.
• If you are already socially active, diversify your activities. Consider joining or starting a group that doesn’t exist in your community and is centered around a common interest. 

So, if you've gotten a little more solitary than in the past, I encourage you to think about how you can build more connection into your week. The science shows that fun, social engagement can help you to live a longer, more satisfying life!

"Senior moment"
"Spacing out"
"Brain fog"
However you may refer to it, forgetfulness happens. Causes can be as simple as dehydration, fatigue, or high blood pressure. Some medications can can cause forgetfulness, as can anxiety or depression. But there is a lot that you can do to keep your synapses firing smoothly.

1. Pay attention. Sometimes the problem is that we're simply on autopilot. Practice noticing details. What have you not noticed about your coworker? What information are your senses giving you?
2. Do things differently. We are hardwired to make mental shortcuts. Life is easier when you can get the lettuce out of the refrigerator without having to stop and think about each step (open fridge door. Locate produce drawer. Pull drawer open.) Intentionally changing up your routine nudges you to notice more of the  details in everyday experiences.
3. Chill out. Stress can highjack your attention. Breathing, meditation, and yoga are great remedies that help you to be in the present moment.
4. Try new things. Eat with chopsticks. Do math in your head (like you used to). Memorize a poem. Read out loud. Take an improv workshop!