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Be Social – a pillar of brain health

Studies show people who spend time with friends and family have a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Discover new ways to strengthen your connections.

Two men and two women laughing together during a meal at a table in a home.

Best Of

The Power of Social Connections

Build lasting social bonds that will serve you well in the years ahead

A man and woman walking together with coffees in hand and the text "6 Pillars of Brain Health Be Social" behind them

Video: 6 Pillars of Brain Health - Be Social

The health impacts of loneliness can be extensive

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A man tutoring a student in a classroom at a school

Brighten Someone’s Day With Kindness

Helping others may improve your mood and sense of connection

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A choir singing at a concert

Group Singing Hits the High Notes

Belonging to a choir may help you feel happier and more connected to others

A hand looking to select one of several social media apps on their smartphone

Take a Break From Social Media to Relax

A digital detox may help you feel calmer and more focused

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5 Ways to Master a Second Language

Get tips on how to take on the challenge of learning a new language as you age

Taking Charge of Brain Health at 83

Mary Hammer shares the routines that help her stay active, social and fulfilled

Giovanna Huyke Mixes Food, Friends and Brain Health

The Puerto Rican chef shares her tips for cooking light and staying connected

8 Ways to Help a Friend With a Problem

Help friends solve problems effectively with simple techniques that work

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Connect With Loved Ones Remotely

Make video calls more meaningful with these simple tips

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Make Small Talk to Build Meaningful Connections

Chitchat isn’t idle! It can help forge new relationships and ease loneliness

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Volunteering for a Healthier Brain

How giving back can improve your mental well-being and reduce stress

Knit or Crochet to Relax and Give Back

You’ll do something good for yourself and someone else

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Start Healthy Habits With SMART Goals

Achieving your health goals is all about strategy

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Track Your Pet's Daily Patterns

Simple tips to monitor your pet's behaviors and habits effectively

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Make a Name Book to Boost Recall

Improve memory by creating a name book that includes new acquaintances

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Play Your Way to Better Brain Health

Learn how play can keep your brain strong and healthy as you age

5 Smart Ways to Make and Keep New Friends

Research shows a strong social circle may help protect your brain

Clear Your Mind: Make Room for Names

Easier recall of names and faces with a simple technique

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Seth Rogen on Alzheimer's Care and Support

The Rogens give tips on supporting loved ones with Alzheimer’s

Latin Dancing May Support Brain Health

Learning the steps with a partner can pay social and mental benefits

People cooking healthy food

Building Brain-Healthy Eating Habits

Learn how the food you eat affects your brain. We make it easy for you to prep delicious, good-for-you meals that support your well-being.

Find Healthy Eating Habits

Legal Disclaimer: Staying Sharp, including all content and features, is offered for informational purposes and to educate users on brain health care and medical issues that may affect their daily lives. Staying Sharp is based on a holistic, lifestyle approach to brain health that encourages users to incorporate into their daily lives activities that are associated with general wellness. Nothing in the service should be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Features including the Cognitive Assessment and Lifestyle Check-Ins, Additional Tests, exercises, and challenges assess performance at a particular moment in time on certain discrete cognitive tasks. Staying Sharp games are intended for entertainment and recreational purposes only. Various factors may affect performance, including sleep, tiredness, focus, and other social, environmental, or emotional factors. Performance is not indicative of cognitive health and not predictive of future performance or medical conditions.

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