It’s called “cognitive reserve,” which means the brain’s ability to stand up to the impact of diseases like Alzheimer’s and not show signs of declining mental capacity. While there’s still no cure for Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, a new study indicates actions anyone can take to boost their cognitive reserves.
The study, reported in a recent article “Lifestyle May Be Key to Helping You Avoid Dementia” from U.S. News & World Report, was conducted by University College in London.
Researchers looked at 1,184 people born in the United Kingdom in 1946. They were given cognitive tests when they were eight years old and when they were 69 years old. The scores combined their education level by age 26, participation in leisure activities at age 43 and their work up to age 53. Their reading ability at age 53 was also evaluated to provide an additional measure of lifelong learning.
Scores for the cognitive test people took at age 69 had a maximum score of 100. The average score for the group was 92.
People who scored higher as children with a higher cognitive reserve and advanced reading abilities performed better than peers who didn’t have a formal education. The people who engaged in six or more leisure activities scored higher than those who engaged in four or fewer leisure activities.
Participants with professional or intermediate levels scored higher on the cognitive test at age 69 than people with lesser-skilled positions.
The findings suggest the protective value of a mentally, physically and socially stimulating lifestyle throughout life, even for people with low cognition scores.
Another valuable finding centered on the APOE4 gene, a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. The presence of this gene was linked to lower scores on cognitive tests at age 69, but those with high or low childhood cognition scores showed similar rates of mental decline with age, regardless of their APOE4 status.
The study, which appears in the August 3 issue of Neurology, shows that genes are not destiny. Older adults who are actively engaged in cognitive, social and physical activities are more likely to maintain late life cognition.
Activities recommended include reading, doing puzzles, playing board games, socializing with friends and family members, volunteering, participation in group activities, attending faith-based services and regular physical activity.
It’s never too late to start boosting your cognitive reserves!
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Reference: U.S. News & World Report (Aug. 4, 2022) “Lifestyle May Be Key to Helping You Avoid Dementia”