Isolation May Be a Dementia Risk Factor, but Tech Could Help

"Basic communications technology is a great tool to combat social isolation," says Mfon Umoh. "This study shows that access and use of simple technologies are important factors that protect older adults against social isolation, which is associated with significant health risks. This is encouraging because it means simple interventions may be meaningful." fizkes/Shutterstock

Two new studies add to the evidence that social isolation is a substantial risk factor for dementia in community-dwelling older adults, new research shows.

The research also identifies technology as an effective way to intervene.