The concept of "cognitive reserve" has been around since 1989 when post-mortem studies showed that some individuals who had full Alzheimer's pathology (tangles and plaques) had been able to live normal lives while others had shown symptoms.Since then, researchers such as Dr. Yaakov Stern from Columbia University in New York have made discoveries about the factors that help to build cognitive reserve and thus reduce the risk of developing symptoms of Alzheimer's.
In an interview I read recently with Dr. Stern, the interviewer emphasizes three key points that apply to young and old alike:
1. Education, an engaging occupation, and leisure activities reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer's.
2. Stimulating activities, ideally combining physical exercise, learning, and social interaction help to build cognitive reserve.
3. It is never too late to start building our cognitive reserve.
To read more about how you can start (or what to continue):
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment