In addition to being entertaining, the practice of stimulating mental activities in the elderly would reduce the risk or delay age-related memory loss, called mild cognitive impairment.
Using a computer, playing games, creative and social occupations … so many stimulating mental activities that could help delay the age-related memory loss, according to a study published in the review American Academy of Neurology this Wednesday July 10. According to researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale (United States), changing certain habits could help slow the aging of the brain.
In a press release, they recall that a mild cognitive impairment is a medical problem “common with aging”. People with the condition may have difficulty performing complex tasks or understanding information. Thus linked to problems of reflection and memory, the pathology is not the same as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But there is some evidence that this deficiency may be a warning sign.
56% less likely with four activities
For their study, the scientists studied 2,000 participants with an average age of 78 who did not have even mild cognitive impairment. At the start of the research, volunteers filled out a questionnaire about how often they participated in five types of stimulating mental activity between their 50s and 65s, and later in life. Every fifteen months and for an average of five years, they then took memory tests.
During the survey, 532 participants developed mild cognitive impairment. The researchers found that:
- THE’computer use in middle age was associated with a 48% reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment. At an advanced age, by 30%;
- Engage in social activities (going to the movies, hanging out with friends) or playing games (crossword puzzles, card games) at middle age or later was associated with a 20% reduced risk;
- The craft activities were associated with a 42% reduced risk, but only later in life;
- People who indulged in two of these activities had a 28% decreased risk of developing memory and thinking problems. Three activities, 45%. Four, 56%. Five, 43%.
Yonas E. Geda, author of the study, nuance: “Our study was observational-oriented, so it is important to note that while we found links between a low risk of developing mild cognitive impairment and various mentally stimulating activities, it is possible that instead of reducing the risk, a person with mild cognitive impairment may not be able to participate in these activities as often. “”More research is needed to deepen our findings “, he concludes.
Read also :
Loading widget
Subscribe to the Top Santé Newsletter to receive the latest news for free