Along with Word search games, like TREADLET, there are other ways to improve your cognitive skills:

Socialising and Brain Health: How Staying Connected Keeps You Sharp

Spending time with friends, family, and community isn’t just enjoyable — it’s one of the most effective ways to protect your memory and mental sharpness as you age.

Why Socialising Matters for Your Brain

Human brains are wired for connection. When you engage in conversation, laughter, or group activities, you activate networks in the brain that support memory, problem-solving, and emotional well-being. The National Institute on Aging notes that social activity is strongly linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline in older adults.

Evidence That Staying Social Boosts Cognitive Health

Research consistently shows that socially active people maintain sharper thinking skills. For example, an open-access study in BMC Geriatrics (2024) found that older adults in long-term care with larger social networks—including friends and family—performed significantly better on cognitive tests than those with smaller networks. Read the study .

Supporting this, a 2017 systematic review of 39 studies concluded that social activities, strong networks, and social support are reliably linked with improvements in global cognition, working memory, visuospatial ability, and processing speed in older adults. Read the review .

Social Activities for Brain Fitness

Group games — Board games, card games, or word puzzles done in groups provide mental stimulation and fun.
Clubs or classes — Book clubs, art classes, or music groups combine learning with social interaction.
Volunteering — Helping others provides purpose, reduces loneliness, and strengthens community bonds.
Regular check-ins — Even short phone calls or video chats with loved ones make a difference.

Overcoming Barriers to Staying Social

It’s not always easy to stay connected, especially as mobility or health challenges arise. Technology offers solutions — video calls, online classes, and social apps can help bridge the gap. Many local communities also offer senior centers and hobby groups that welcome newcomers.

Quick Tips to Stay Socially Active

Schedule regular catch-ups with friends or family.
Join a group based on your interests — gardening, walking, or music.
Look into community centers or lifelong learning programs.
Combine physical activity with socialising — like group walks or dance classes.

Quick Recap