Reading, writing or learning a language could slash the risk of Alzheimer's by nearly 40 per cent, scientists say. The findings of a new study suggest that engaging in mentally stimulating activities and lifelong learning may not only significantly reduce the risk of the memory-robbing condition, but delay the disease by more than five years. 'Our findings suggest that cognitive health in later life is strongly influenced by lifelong exposure to intellectually stimulating environments.' Symptom ChecklistThey also found participants with higher scores tended to develop Alzheimer's later in life, at around 94-years-old - over five years later than those at the lowest levels. However, it is important to stress the findings do not prove that lifelong learning decreases the risk of Alzheimer's; it only shows an association.

Source: Daily Mail February 12, 2026 05:23 UTC