Open AccessStudying at university in later life slows cognitive decline: A long‐term prospective study
Author(s) -
Bindoff Aidan D.,
Summers Mathew J.,
Hill Edward,
Alty Jane,
Vickers James C.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia: translational research and clinical interventions
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.49
H-Index - 30
ISSN - 2352-8737
DOI - 10.1002/trc2.12207
Subject(s) - cognition , neurocognitive , psychology , cognitive decline , episodic memory , gerontology , quality of life (healthcare) , attendance , developmental psychology , medicine , dementia , psychiatry , disease , pathology , economics , psychotherapist , economic growth
Declining cognition in later life is associated with loss of independence and quality of life. This decline in cognition may potentially be reduced or reversed through engaging in cognitively stimulating activities. This study examined the potential for university attendance in later life to enhance cognitive function in older adults. Methods Cognitively unimpaired adults (n = 485, 69% female, median age 60 years) were given the opportunity to undertake free university study. Repeated neurocognitive assessment was performed over 7 years. Results Participants in the university education group (n = 383) improved z = .02 SD (.01, .03) per year of the study compared to controls ( P = .001; averaged across a battery of cognitive tests). The largest improvements were observed on tests of language and verbal learning, memory, and episodic memory. Discussion Later‐life university study was associated with improved cognitive trajectories. Later‐life education may preserve cognitive function, specifically for functions associated with communication, social interaction, and maintaining independence.