Studying reduces risk of Alzheimer’s by up to 75%
The Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York conducted a study where they discovered that seniors could reduce their risk of dementia by as much as 75 per cent by increasing the level of mental challenge they expose themselves to each day.
The findings of the research show that simply reading and writing more often is a good start and that actively studying – where you engage your brain – can have fantastic results.
The study wanted to see if any physical or cognitive recreational activities influenced mental acuity. The Albert Einstein College of Medicine studied cognitive activities such as reading books, writing for pleasure, doing crossword puzzles, playing cards and playing musical instruments. And they studied physical activities like playing tennis or golf, swimming, bicycling, dancing, walking for exercise and doing housework. One of the surprises of the study was that almost none of the physical activities appeared to offer any protection against dementia. There can be cardiovascular benefits of course, but the focus of this study was the mind.
CEO of Open Universities Australia, Paul Wappett, said that many savvy seniors were taking the chance to expand their minds and keep their brains healthy by studying later in life.
“We’ve known for a long time that puzzles like the crossword or Sudoku are good for your brain and may help to ward of Alzheimer’s but research is increasingly showing that simply keeping your brain active and energised is enough to make a difference,” Mr Wappet said.