A neurologist with a significant online following has pinpointed a surprisingly straightforward habit common among individuals who maintain remarkable mental clarity well into their ninth and tenth decades. According to Dr Baibing Chen, a US-based neurologist, the sharpest ageing brains consistently share one powerful trait: deep, meaningful social connections.
The Science of the 'Super Ager'
In a recent TikTok video, Dr Chen, who practises in Michigan, discussed the term 'super agers', used by researchers to describe older adults whose memory and cognitive abilities rival those of people 20 to 30 years younger. He notes that while he occasionally encounters these patients in his clinic, their secret isn't found in a special diet or supplement regimen.
'The one thing that super agers have in common is that they stay social,' Dr Chen stated. Research into this group has uncovered tangible physical differences in their brains. Studies indicate that super agers possess a thicker anterior cingulate cortex, a brain region critically involved in emotion, attention, and, significantly, social connection.
Why Social Interaction is a Full-Brain Workout
When scientists compared lifestyles, they found that super agers consistently maintained stronger, more meaningful relationships and remained deeply engaged with others. Dr Chen explains the profound impact of this social engagement: 'Social interaction is actually like a full body workout for your brain.'
Every meaningful conversation activates complex neural networks responsible for memory, empathy, attention, and language simultaneously. This activity does more than provide momentary stimulation. Over time, these rich social connections offer chemical and structural protection for the brain.
Deep relationships help to lower stress hormones like cortisol while boosting protective neurochemicals such as oxytocin and dopamine. This biochemical environment helps preserve brain structure as we age. Consequently, isolation and loneliness are increasingly linked to cognitive decline, whereas robust social ties appear to slow the brain's ageing process.
Beyond Crosswords: A New Prescription for Brain Health
For those aiming to safeguard their mental sharpness, Dr Chen suggests that traditional brain-training tools like crosswords or Sudoku may be insufficient on their own. 'If you want to keep your brain young, don't just do crosswords or sudoku every day,' he advised.
Instead, he urges people to actively prioritise genuine human interaction—whether that means phoning a friend, joining a club, or volunteering in the local community. He emphasises that social connection stands as one of the strongest predictors of staying sharp in later life.
This insight aligns with lessons from global longevity hotspots like Japan, which recently announced a record 99,763 centenarians within its population. Experts attribute Japan's exceptional healthspan not to rare genetics but to a culture that fosters purpose, known as 'ikigai', and deeply interconnected social structures. This environment naturally combats loneliness and supports cognitive vitality, reinforcing the universal power of community for lifelong brain health.
