A team of researchers from Rush University Medical Center in the U.S. has found that a lifelong habit of reading helps protect against dementia. The same benefit appeared for other verbal activities.
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 cognitive impairment 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 effort. 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 study, 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 impairment 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 Alzheimer’s disease.
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 word-based activities do not depend on socioeconomic status.
It’s Never Too Late to Develop Healthy Habits
The researchers provided new evidence of a strong connection between keeping the mind active — in this case through word-focused activities — and reducing the likelihood of developing dementia.
This aligns with previous research. For instance, earlier studies suggested solving puzzles helps keep neurons active and may prevent cognitive decline.
No matter how old someone is, it’s never too late to pick up habits that help keep the mind sharp.
The results of the study were published in the journal Neurology.
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