Feeling lonely or depressed may significantly increase your chances of developing dementia, especially when both are present. 💬😔
Published In: The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging
Date: August 2025
Authors: Wang, L. et al.
Link to Study: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnha.2025.100653
Summary
This large international study of over 133,000 adults aged 45 and older found that loneliness and depression each increase the risk of developing dementia, but the risk is highest when both are experienced together. Depression explained over one-third of the link between loneliness and dementia, suggesting it may play a key mediating role. Addressing both conditions early could help reduce dementia risk.
Key Takeaways
✅ LONLINESS increased dementia risk by 27%, even after adjusting for other factors.
✅ DEPRESSION alone raised the risk by 60%.
✅ People experiencing BOTH LONELINESS and DEPRESSION had DOUBLE THE RISK of dementia compared to those with neither.
✅ A significant “additive interaction” suggests these two factors amplify each other’s impact on brain health.
Why It Matters for You
Social connection and mental well-being aren’t just good for mood, they’re vital for protecting your brain. Staying socially active and seeking help for depression may be powerful tools to reduce your dementia risk.
Citation
Wang, L., Ma, J., Liu, N., Ma, L., Pei, H., He, S., & Li, H. (2025). Associations of loneliness and depression with increased risks of incident dementia: A prospective study from three older adult cohorts. The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging, 29, 100653. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnha.2025.100653