The Surprising Cognitive Benefits of Learning Multiple New Tasks in Older Adults
“Older adults may achieve the same cognition as undergrads,” according to researchers at UC Riverside.
Their newly published study, One-year cognitive outcomes from a multiple real-world skill learning intervention with older adults, indicates that learning multiple new tasks can have long-lasting cognitive benefits in older adults, giving them a greater capacity to retain and recall information and solve problems. This challenges the widely accepted notion that our cognitive abilities decline as we age.
Older adults can learn new skills and improve their cognition if they approach learning with the same enthusiasm, curiosity, and open-mindedness as a child. Studies have found that older adults who engage in regular learning activities can improve their memory, focus, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, this type of learning can even help reduce the risk of developing age-related cognitive decline and dementia.
The studies were conducted on participants with a median age of 66 and 69, respectively. To be eligible for the study, they had to be at least 55 years old, fluent in English, have normal or corrected-to-normal vision, and have no prior diagnosis of cognitive impairment. This ensures that the results are reliable and can be applied to a broader population of older adults.
The findings suggest that older adults can benefit from engaging in new and challenging activities and skills; this can help to improve their cognitive function and delay the onset of cognitive decline. In addition, the mental stimulation that comes with the learning process, not just the task itself, is a critical factor in improving cognitive function.
The cognitive scores of those who underwent the intervention improved drastically in the following months, with the scores increasing threefold at the one-year point. Furthermore, the scores continued to increase even after the learning program had concluded.
The activities should be challenging enough to provide a stimulating learning experience. They could include anything from learning a new language or musical instrument to engaging in puzzles or problem-solving tasks. Additionally, engaging in social activities can help improve cognitive function in older adults by providing meaningful interaction and conversations.
Older adults must stay mentally active and push themselves to learn new things to maintain and improve their cognitive health. Activities involving problem-solving, critical thinking, and memory-building can help improve cognitive functioning, as can reading, learning a new language, or taking classes to stay current on topics that interest them. These activities can help older adults stay sharp and engaged and better handle life’s everyday challenges.
In conclusion, the studies prove that it is never too late to learn new skills and improve cognitive function, even in older adults. The key is approaching learning with an open mindset and embracing the challenge.
As we age, it is important to continue engaging in mentally stimulating activities to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of cognitive decline. The findings of these studies have significant implications for the aging population and highlight the importance of lifelong learning.
References
[i] Leah Ferguson et al. One-year cognitive outcomes from a multiple real-world skill learning intervention with older adults (Apr. 14, 2023)
[ii] J.D. Warren Older adults may achieve same cognition as undergrads (Apr. 18, 2023)
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