Studying at university in later life slows cognitive decline: A long-term prospective study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

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 impro

SUBMITTER: Bindoff AD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8424760 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature