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social isolation

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·April 22, 2023·5 min read

500 Days of Solitude: One Woman’s Experience of Extreme Social Isolation Sheds Light on Time Perception

A woman who recently emerged from a cave after 500 days of isolation reported she rapidly lost her perception of time. Researchers explore how social isolation impacts time perception and the neurobiological mechanisms that may explain this phenomenon.

This shows a woman standing alone in a crowd

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·April 5, 2023·3 min read

Lonely People’s Divergent Thought Processes May Contribute to Feeling Alone in a Crowded Room

Lonely people's neural responses differ from their less lonely peers, suggesting lonely people may see the world differently from those around them, even if they have a large social network, and this may contribute to feeling lonely.

This shows a woman standing alone by a window

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·April 4, 2023·4 min read

Tired of Being Alone: How Social Isolation Impacts on Our Energy

A new study found people who experienced social isolation for eight hours reported higher levels of tiredness. The findings suggest low energy may be a basic human response to a lack of social communication.

Featured Neuroscience

·February 14, 2023·4 min read

Social Isolation Triggers Astrocyte-Mediated Deficits in Learning and Memory

During periods of social isolation, astrocytes in the brain become hyperactive. This suppresses circuit formation and memory formation. Reversing astrocyte hyperactivity can help mitigate memory deficits associated with social isolation.

This shows an older man sitting on a bench

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·February 10, 2023·4 min read

Certain Social Factors Can Predict Early Death in Older Adults

Researchers have compiled a comprehensive inventory of social aspects of the aging population that can predict longevity. Feeling socially isolated, living in a neighborhood with poor cleanliness, and lower perceived control over financial situations appear to contribute to early death in the aging population.

This shows a man walking alone at sunset

Featured Neurology Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·February 1, 2023·3 min read

New Association Between Social Isolation and Dementia Risk Factors

Loneliness and a lack of social support contribute to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or other dementias. The findings add to the growing body of evidence linking social isolation to Alzheimer's disease.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·January 11, 2023·2 min read

Does Social Isolation Affect Older Adults’ Risk of Developing Dementia?

Older adults who face social isolation have a 28% increased risk of developing dementia than those who have frequent social interactions.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·November 29, 2022·4 min read

Toward Early Detection of the Pathological Social Withdrawal Syndrome Known as ‘Hikikomori’

Hikikomori is a complex condition where a person withdraws from society and remains isolated at home for more than six months. The condition is becoming more prevalent in Western societies. Researchers have developed a new method designed to help detect hikikomori at an earlier stage and provide treatment.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 3, 2022·3 min read

Cumulative Loneliness Associated With Accelerated Memory Aging in Older Adults

Feeling lonely for extended periods of time was associated with more rapid memory decline in those aged over 65.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·August 2, 2022·4 min read

The Cost of Loneliness

Researchers discuss the detrimental psychological, physical, and economic impact of loneliness.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 17, 2022·5 min read

Socially Isolated People Have Differently Wired Brains and Poorer Cognition

Social isolation is linked to alterations in brain structure and cognitive deficits. Additionally, social isolation can increase the risk of developing dementia as a person ages.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·June 9, 2022·4 min read

Social Isolation Is Directly Associated With Later Dementia

Social isolation has been directly linked to structural changes in brain areas associated with memory and cognitive function. Researchers report socially isolated people are 26% more likely to develop dementia later in life.