Literary creativity may help prevent dementia.

Keeping a diary is often associated with the hobby of teenage girls who decorate their pages with glittery pens. However, research shows that this form of literary creativity can also help older adults prevent the onset of dementia.

Journaling as the Best Way to Prevent Dementia

Researchers analyzed data from 10,000 Australians over the age of 70, who were observed for nearly a decade. They found that those who engaged more frequently in literacy activities, such as journaling, writing letters, or using computers, had an 11% lower risk of developing dementia.

At the same time, active mental activities like playing board games, cards, or chess, solving crosswords or puzzles, were associated with a 9% reduction in risk. The researchers also discovered that artistic activities, such as woodworking, metalworking, or painting, as well as passive mental activities like reading newspapers or listening to music, led to a 7% decrease in dementia risk. On the other hand, social outings and conversations showed no effect.

A team of researchers from Melbourne notes that all these findings demonstrate that adult participation in literacy learning, creative arts, and both active and passive mental activities can help lower the risk of dementia in later life. For older adults, enriching their lifestyle may be particularly important, as it can prevent disease development through changes in daily routines.

According to scientists, a rich lifestyle with diverse leisure activities may reflect an optimistic personality and provide cognitive benefits. All of this stimulates the growth of neurons and synapses, contributing to overall well-being.

The Prevalence of Dementia and Efforts to Combat the Disease

The research team added that their findings could help shape geriatric care policies and dementia prevention strategies for older adults. According to the WHO, around 50 million people worldwide have this disease, with nearly 10 million new cases added each year.

Estimates from a 2021 study suggest that this number could exceed 152 million by 2050 due to an aging population. Experts predict that the highest growth in prevalence will be observed in Eastern and Northern Africa and the Middle East.

As reported by the Daily Mail, scientists are exploring a potential treatment for dementia. It is known that the protein “Klotho” rejuvenates the brains of older monkeys, and it may work similarly in humans. However, creative methods to prevent the onset of dementia can already be beneficial for older adults today.