Social interaction and mental stimulation with interesting new activities seem to have a protective effect against dementia or increased forgetfulness with aging. Connections between brain cells tends to occur as we age, and possibly as we use them less, however more severe forms of dementia that involve cell death is not a normal part of aging.

 

Maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle and getting adequate sleep and exercise are helpful for health and immune function throughout life and may help make interactions with others more pleasant. Sleeplessness or poor sleep quality can increase irritability and risk of accidents. 

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Physically and mentally possibly, thinking about someone you care about, may have a healing effect by soothing the fear/stress response. (G3.10) Increasing opportunities and funding for extracurricular activities helped reduce substance abuse in teens in the nation of Iceland.

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For more information:

• Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting, or Self-Involved Parents, by Lindsay C. Gibson, PsyD, (New Harbinger Pub., Inc., 2015, Oakland, CA) (G3.10). 

• See: G3.3 & G3.4, Relaxation and Stress, (effectivecare.info)

• Sleep and Health, (transcendingsquare.com).

• How Iceland Got Kids to Say No to Drugs, The Atlantic, (theatlantic.com).

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/Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes within the guidelines of fair use. While I am a Registered Dietitian this information is not intended to provide individual health guidance. Please see a health professional for individual health care purposes./