Did you know that lifelong learning is the most significant modifiable risk factor for developing or preventing dementia? The more you challenge your brain and engage in lifelong learning, the lower your risk becomes. Research demonstrates that for each additional year of education, there is an 11% decrease in the risk of developing dementia. However, meta-studies also emphasize that it’s the learning that occurs throughout life that truly matters. One study showed that the people who are most mentally active later in life have a 32% slower rate of cognitive decline than those who maintain an average level of mental activity. And those who are least mentally active have a 48% faster decline into dementia. Considering that 32% of individuals aged 85 and older have Alzheimer’s dementia, the most common form of dementia, the impact of learning is nothing short of remarkable.
Impact on Health and Longevity
The principle of “use it or lose it” is fundamental for maintaining brain health and cognitive abilities. When we actively use and challenge our brains, they thrive and flourish. Conversely, neglecting mental stimulation leads to the weakening of neural networks and a decline in cognitive functions. Lifelong brain challenges are instrumental in fostering a robust, adaptable, and healthy brain, ultimately contributing to what’s known as cognitive capacity or reserve—a crucial determinant of life quality, brain health, and lifespan.
When we engage in learning, we compel our brains to think in new and innovative ways. In response, the brain activates millions of neurons across different functions, keeping relevant neurons active, strengthening connections, and grow new connections. It will even stimulate the growth of new brain cells, a process called neurogenesis. The dynamic is similar to physical training: just as muscles grow stronger and more effective with exercise, our brains thrive and evolve when we learn something new.
Establishing a solid habit of lifelong learning can be the key to consistently challenging your brain and embarking on a journey filled with joy, fresh insights, and extraordinary experiences. Studies have found that even in late life, acquiring new knowledge yields significant benefits for the brain and overall health. It’s never too late to begin.
Live Happier, Healthier, Longer
Lifelong learning is one of several influential factors that can have a radical impact on your quality of life, rate of aging, risk of disease, and lifespan. But the challenges, goals and journey is different for everyone. And lifestyle changes can be hard to realize and maintain.
At the Longevity Institute, we are dedicated to providing programs, tools, and knowledge to help you assess and improve these risk factors, enabling you to live a happier, healthier, and longer life. Download the Longevity app to get a powerful companion on the journey.
References
Sharp, E. S. et al, “The Relationship between Education and Dementia An Updated Systematic Review”, Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord. 2011 Oct; 25(4): 289–304.
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Valenzuela, M. J., & Sachdev, P. (2006). Brain Reserve and Dementia: A Systematic Review. Psychological Medicine, 36(4), 441-454.
Hultsch, D. F., Hertzog, C., Small, B. J., & Dixon, R. A. (1999). Use It or Lose It: Engaged Lifestyle as a Buffer of Cognitive Decline in Aging? Psychology and Aging, 14(2), 245-263.
Verghese, J., Lipton, R. B., Katz, M. J., Hall, C. B., Derby, C. A., Kuslansky, G., … & Buschke, H. (2003). Leisure Activities and the Risk of Dementia in the Elderly. New England Journal of Medicine, 348(25), 2508-2516.
Kempermann, G., Gast, D., & Gage, F. H. (2002). Neuroplasticity in Old Age: Sustained Fivefold Induction of Hippocampal Neurogenesis by Long-term Environmental Enrichment. Annals of Neurology, 52(2), 135-143.
Lledo, P. M., Alonso, M., & Grubb, M. S. (2006). Adult Neurogenesis and Functional Plasticity in Neuronal Circuits. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 7(3), 179-193.
Park, D. C., & Bischof, G. N. (2013). The Aging Mind: Neuroplasticity in Response to Cognitive Training. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 15(1), 109-119.
Belleville, S., Clement, F., Mellah, S., & Gilbert, B. (2011). Training-related Brain Plasticity in Subjects at Risk of Developing Alzheimer’s Disease. Brain, 134(6), 1623-1634.