Mental activity may reduce Alzheimer’s risk by up to 40 percent

A recent scientific study has revealed that engaging in mental activities—such as reading, writing, or learning a new language—can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by up to 40 percent and may delay its onset for several years.

Published in the journal Neurology by the American Academy of Neurology, the research emphasizes the importance of lifelong mental stimulation in promoting cognitive health and reducing the likelihood of mental decline.

Lead researcher Andrea Zammit from the Rush Alzheimer’s Research Centre explained that long-term exposure to intellectually stimulating environments plays a significant role in protecting the brain as we age.

The study followed 1,939 participants in their eighties who did not have dementia at the start of the research, monitoring them for approximately eight years.

During this period, 551 participants developed Alzheimer’s, while 719 showed signs of mild cognitive impairment. Those who maintained high levels of mental activity throughout their lives developed the disease about five years later than others, highlighting the protective effect of consistent cognitive engagement.

Dementia, with Alzheimer’s as its most common form, remains one of the world’s most pressing health challenges. In the absence of a cure, prevention through healthy lifestyles and continuous mental stimulation is emerging as one of the most effective strategies to combat the disease.