Individuals who live long, healthy lives often share common traits: robust social connections and an outgoing personality. These qualities are particularly evident in a group known as "superagers"—people over 80 years old who possess the memory and cognitive abilities of individuals 20-30 years younger.

Since 2000, Northwestern University in the US has studied this unique group to understand how they avoid cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. A report published in 2025 summarized their findings after 25 years of research. Professor Sandra Weintraub, from Northwestern University, noted that while superagers do not share a common diet, exercise regimen, or medication, their sole shared characteristic is a strong emphasis on social relationships and an extroverted lifestyle.

Take Ralph Rehbock, 91, for example, who maintains a busy schedule. Each month, he participates in a senior citizens' group at a Jewish synagogue in suburban Chicago, US. Weekly, he sings classical music with his club and gives presentations to students at the Illinois Holocaust Museum.

Similarly, Leigh Steinman, 82, regularly engages in art projects with children and watches baseball at Wrigley Field in Chicago. Although retired, he visits the stadium 3-4 times each week during the summer to meet friends.

Ralph Rehbock, 91, a member of a weekly singing group. Photo: Nytimes

Neuroscientist Ben Rein, from Stanford University, states that people who regularly socialize exhibit better resistance to cognitive decline and possess greater brain volume. Social interaction helps protect the brain from age-related atrophy. Conversely, loneliness increases the stress hormone cortisol, which leads to chronic inflammation, cell damage, and a higher risk of memory loss. Thanks to their active lifestyles, the brain volume of superagers is comparable to that of individuals in their 50s and 60s.

Unlike many 80-year-olds who often show signs of Alzheimer's, the brains of superagers display few to no such indicators. The function of neurochemicals that support concentration and memory is also better preserved in these individuals.

Superager brains contain a higher number of von Economo neurons—a type of cell that governs social behavior. Doctor Bill Seeley, from the University of California, explains that these cells help superagers maintain robust social networks, thereby enhancing their overall health. He added that this is just one of many biological advantages contributing to their mental clarity.

Doctor Sofiya Milman, from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, observes that long-lived individuals tend to be extroverted and optimistic. However, scientists still debate whether social interaction helps maintain cognition, or if good cognition itself drives the need for social engagement.

Despite this ongoing discussion, for Steinman, the benefits of meeting people are undeniable. "My openness and connection with neighbors have helped me stay healthy all this time," he said.

Bao Nhien (According to The New York Times)