Age Less / Live More 620: Train Your Brain with Ben Rein
May 15, 2024
Neuroscientist Ben Rein discusses brain health, debunking autism misinformation, and the impact of social media on empathy. They explore the value of social interaction, hip mobility, and the effects of cannabis on sleep patterns.
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Cognitive Decline Tops Aging Concerns
- Two thirds of people report cognitive decline as their biggest aging worry.
- Memory, recall speed, and conversational word-finding are the most common complaints.
Mice Show Time-Locked Empathy For Pain
- In mice, an observer becomes hypersensitive after one hour with a peer in pain.
- The empathy-like response peaks then dissipates over 24 hours tied to that interaction.
Social Media Dampens Empathy And Well‑Being
- Higher social media use correlates with poorer mood, sleep, and anxiety.
- Ben proposes online interaction reduces empathy because we miss facial and vocal cues.