A team of researchers from Rush University Medical Center in the U.S. has discovered that the habit of reading helps prevent dementia in later life. This is true for other established related to verbal practices as well.
The scientists found that consistent engagement with written words throughout life, including reading books and learning languages, contributes to maintaining mental sharpness.
What Did the Researchers Discover?
The study revealed that decades of such activities ultimately reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (the most severe form of dementia) by 38 percent, and the risk of mild by 36 percent.
To reach these conclusions, the team involved 1,939 volunteers. The average age of participants at the start of the study was 80 years. Researchers tracked their cognitive health over eight years.
“In our study, we examined cognitive enrichment from childhood to late adulthood, focusing on the types of activities and resources that stimulate mental work. The results confirmed that cognitive health in old age largely depends on prolonged exposure to intellectually stimulating environments,” said neuropsychologist Andrea Zamit, the lead author of the study.
During the research, scientists asked participants about their habits at ages 12, 40, and their current age, as reported by Science Alert. Questions included activities such as reading books, visiting libraries and museums, learning foreign languages, and using dictionaries.
The data showed that the maximum amount of continuous learning and development could delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease by five years and mild cognitive impairments by seven years.
Researchers also analyzed brain tissue from participants who passed away during the study. The brains of those who scored higher on the “cognitive enrichment” scale in childhood showed a certain level of protection against the accumulation of proteins associated with .
The scientists also collected data on the socioeconomic status of participants to determine whether it affected the rate of cognitive decline. It turned out that the benefits of working with words do not depend on this status.
It’s Never Too Late to Develop Healthy Habits
The researchers provided new evidence of a strong connection between maintaining mental activity (in this case, through word processing) and reducing the likelihood of developing .
This aligns with previous research findings. For instance, earlier studies considered solving puzzles as a way to ensure regular activity for our neurons and prevent cognitive impairments.
No matter how old a person is, they should realize that it’s never too late to develop habits that will help keep their mind sharp.
The results of the study were published in the journal Neurology.
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