A recent study has found that taking education classes in middle age can significantly decrease the risk of developing dementia later in life. While it is commonly known that brain-teasing activities like sudokus can help protect against Alzheimer’s, this research suggests that learning a new language or skill can have the same beneficial effect.
The study analyzed data from 282,000 British volunteers aged between 40 and 69 years old over a seven-year period. Participants who were enrolled in adult education classes at the start of the study had a 19% lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who did not. Individual risk scores for dementia were calculated based on DNA and self-reported participation in adult education.
Throughout the study, participants underwent various psychological and cognitive tests, including reaction time and memory assessments. The results showed that those who took part in adult education classes were able to maintain their fluid intelligence and nonverbal reasoning better than those who did not, indicating a possible protective effect on the nervous system.
Dr. Hikaru Takeuchi, the study’s first author, noted the significance of their findings, stating, “Here we show that people who take adult education classes have a lower risk of developing dementia five years later.” Dr. Ryuta Kawashima, another co-author, suggested that engaging in intellectual activities may have positive effects on the nervous system, potentially preventing dementia.
The researchers emphasized the need for further trials to confirm the protective effect of adult education on dementia. Their findings were published in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience.
Dementia is a collective term for progressive neurological disorders that affect memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. The number of people diagnosed with dementia is increasing globally, particularly in wealthier countries with longer life expectancies.
Currently, there is no cure for dementia, but medications can slow down its progression. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of treatment.
In conclusion, this study highlights the potential benefits of lifelong learning in reducing the risk of dementia. Engaging in adult education classes, particularly those involving language learning or new skills, may contribute to overall brain health and cognitive function as individuals age.
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