Benefits of Lifelong Learning
As a new school year begins, we are reminded of the many benefits that come from ongoing education. The advantages of learning not only impact our youth but remain throughout our lifespan. Staying in school builds our knowledge base, can increase earned income potential, and may offer benefits to our brain health that last a lifetime. Continuing to expand our knowledge and challenge our minds in new ways throughout the life course offers benefits beyond the pure enjoyment that comes from building our intellect.
As we continue to learn new things throughout our lives, our brains benefit and adapt. The endeavor to remain a lifelong learner is often rewarding in multiple ways. In addition to the value and personal fulfillment that comes from gaining a strong knowledge base, learning can develop new pathways in our brain. These pathways provide alternate routes to process our thinking. Our brain’s ability to improvise and adapt to compensate for changes or damages may be referred to as cognitive reserve. The concepts of cognitive resilience and cognitive reserve continue to be studied by experts and hold promise as protective factors for normal aging. Cognitive reserve may likely also reduce risk or delay the symptom onset of Alzheimer’s Disease and other related Dementias.
Choosing to spend time challenging our minds can be both enjoyable and enriching. Spending time doing cognitive enriching activities such as puzzles, crafts, arts, woodworking, or reading that engages our minds with new learning helps to build our brain power. Challenging ourselves further to learn new activities or master a new and different method of completing a favorite craft or hobby, helps to build our capacity. Consider listening to a new style of music or learning a new instrument or language. Inviting friends or family to participate in these activities offers the additional benefit of companionship and social interaction. Combined with healthy diet, physical activity, and consistent medical care, prioritizing brain health brings many benefits and can also be fun. As others return to school, think about taking a course or focusing on learning something that piques your curiosity. It is good for your brain health, so enjoy!