Reading and writing linked to nearly 40% lower dementia risk, study finds

A US observational study of 1,939 people (average age 80) followed for about eight years found that higher lifetime engagement in reading, writing and other mentally stimulating activities was associated with a 38% lower risk of Alzheimer's disease and later average onset of symptoms.

Researchers report that reading, writing and other intellectually stimulating activities across life were associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease in an observational study. The study followed 1,939 people with an average age of 80 for about eight years and was published in the journal Neurology. Authors say cognitive health in later life is strongly influenced by lifelong exposure to enriching environments. The finding is discussed amid concerns that dementia numbers are projected to rise globally. Key findings: - The study tracked 1,939 participants (average age 80) for an average of eight years. - During follow-up, 551 participants developed Alzheimer's disease and 719 developed mild cognitive impairment (MCI). - Participants were assessed for cognitive enrichment in early life, midlife and later life; the top 10% for lifetime enrichment had a 21% rate of Alzheimer's versus 34% in the bottom 10%. - After adjusting for age, sex and education, higher lifetime enrichment was associated with a 38% lower risk of Alzheimer's and a 36% lower risk of MCI. - Those with the highest enrichment developed Alzheimer's at an average age of 94 compared with 88 for those with the lowest enrichment, and MCI at 85 versus 78 for the lowest group. - The paper was led by Andrea Zammit of Rush University Medical Center, included autopsy-linked analyses showing slower decline among higher-enrichment participants, and noted limitations such as reliance on participants’ recall and that the study shows association rather than proof of causation. Summary: The study reports an association between lifelong engagement in mentally stimulating activities and lower risk and delayed onset of Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment, which is relevant given rising dementia projections. The research does not prove causation and has limitations including retrospective recall; Undetermined at this time.