Social Connection Reduces Dementia Risk - And Thousands Of New Zealanders Are Already Doing Something About ItAs the World Health Organization releases new guidelines identifying social isolation as one of the leading modifiable risk factors for dementia, one of New Zealand's largest social network for retirees and semi-retirees is calling the findings a wake-up call - and a clear call to action. "Social isolation is one of the most significant and preventable risks to our health as we age - and yet it remains one of the least talked about. Advertisement - scroll to continue readingNational spokesperson for Probus in New Zealand, Margaret Drake, said the report underscores the quiet but vital work Probus clubs do every week across the country. At the same time, research by Age Concern Auckland has found that 59% of older New Zealanders have experienced loneliness or social isolation, with nearly a third feeling lonely frequently or almost constantly. Probus clubs operate in communities across New Zealand, offering retirees and semi-retirees a low-barrier entry point to regular social connection.