As noted by neuropsychologist Andrea Zammitt, the study covered the entire life course of the participants, from childhood to old age, including various environmental factors and activities that contribute to mental engagement.
Participants were asked about their habits at ages 12, 40, and currently, including information about reading books, visiting libraries and museums, learning foreign languages, and working with dictionaries, as well as other language and text-related activities.
The results of the study showed that individuals with a high level of cognitive enrichment had a 38% lower likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease, and a 36% lower risk of mild cognitive impairment compared to those with low levels. On average, Alzheimer's disease developed in such individuals about five years later, and mild cognitive impairment occurred seven years later.
Analysis of the brain tissue of deceased participants also demonstrated that those who exhibited high intellectual activity in childhood were more resilient to the accumulation of pathological proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers emphasize that active mental engagement 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.
