As neuropsychologist Andrea Zammitt clarified, the study covered the period from childhood to old age, including various environmental factors and types of activities that contribute to brain activation.
Participants were asked about their habits at ages 12 and 40, as well as their current activities. The survey examined aspects such as reading books, visiting libraries and museums, learning foreign languages, and working with dictionaries.
The results of the study showed that among those with a high level of cognitive enrichment, the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease was 38% lower, and the likelihood of mild cognitive impairment decreased by 36% compared to participants with low scores. On average, Alzheimer's disease developed five years later in such individuals, and mild cognitive impairment occurred seven years later.
Additionally, an analysis of brain tissue from deceased participants revealed that individuals with a more active intellectual life in childhood have greater resilience to the accumulation of pathological proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease.
The authors of the study emphasize that regular mental challenges throughout life can help preserve cognitive functions. They also highlight the importance of increasing access to libraries, educational programs, and other resources that can foster an interest in learning and reading from an early age.
