In 1990, Auckland Zoo welcomed Burma, an elephant whose life story offers insights into brain health. Elephants, like humans, thrive on strong social bonds, crucial for emotional and cognitive wellbeing. Elephants are highly social, forming tight-knit groups and extensive networks. Similarly, humans are wired for social connection, and isolation can trigger stress responses that harm our health. Chronic stress from prolonged isolation can lead to cognitive decline and increased dementia risk. Read the full article by Umbrella’s clinical psychologist, Dr. Nigel George, and intern Alex Crook, a Masters student in Organisational Psychology.
Credit: Dementia NZ.