Key points

Some holiday season behaviors pose risks for brain health, such as overeating, lack of sleep, and stress.

Holiday socializing can have a positive effect on cognition.

Take advantage of opportunities to get together with friends, family, and acquaintances.

by Karen Fingerman, Ph.D., and Debra Umberson, Ph.D.

December is not typically a month when we think about improving our health. Our days are filled with cookie exchanges, eggnog, out-of-tune carols, circling parking lots looking for a space, and irritation with the annoying cousin who always brings drama to a family gathering. But the benefits of getting together with others may outweigh any harms. Being socially engaged is a key way to maintain health, particularly cognitive health, and to prevent dementia .

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