Reading and writing linked to nearly 40% lower Alzheimer’s risk, study finds
A US study of 1,939 older adults found lifelong engagement in reading, writing and other mentally stimulating activities was associated with large reductions in dementia risk and slower cognitive decline.
- Lifelong cognitive enrichment was associated with a 38% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and a 36% lower risk of mild cognitive impairment.
- Researchers tracked 1,939 people with an average age of 80 for about eight years.
- The top 10% by lifetime enrichment had a 21% Alzheimer’s incidence versus 34% in the bottom 10%.
- People with the highest enrichment developed Alzheimer’s at an average age of 94 versus 88 for the lowest enrichment, and developed MCI at 85 versus 78.
- Enrichment measures covered early, mid and later life activities such as reading, writing, learning languages, museum visits and access to books and libraries.
- Autopsied participants with higher lifetime enrichment showed better memory and slower cognitive decline before death.
- The study is observational, relies on later-life recall of early experiences and shows association not proof of causation.