A Simple Habit That May Protect Your Brain From Cognitive Decline
A recent research review has found that reading for pleasure may be associated with better mental health and cognitive abilities, as well as a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia later in life. Reading from an early age may also help support brain development.
Published in the journal Psychological Medicine, the review examined findings from studies exploring the effects of reading on mental health and cognitive function across different age groups.
The findings suggest that regular reading may help build what is known as “cognitive reserve,” the brain’s ability to withstand changes associated with ageing or certain diseases. Reading was also linked to better concentration, memory and executive functioning.
During childhood, data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study showed that reading for pleasure between the ages of 3 and 10 was associated with cognitive, academic and behavioural benefits that persisted into adolescence. It was also linked to differences in certain brain regions involved in language and emotional regulation.
Among adults, reading was associated with improved psychological well-being and reduced stress and loneliness, as well as greater empathy and social connection. A previous survey found that reading for 30 minutes a week was associated with participants reporting a greater ability to understand other people’s emotions.
Evidence also suggests that reading may benefit older adults, as it has been associated with better cognitive functioning and a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
However, researchers stressed that most of the available evidence comes from observational studies. This means the findings show an association between reading and these benefits, but do not prove that reading alone directly improves mental health or reduces the risk of dementia.
Experts also suggest that book clubs and group reading sessions may provide additional social benefits, particularly for older adults, alongside the mental stimulation and enjoyment offered by reading.
