In an earlier blog, I wrote about positivity, which is key trait of SuperAgers—people who live to 85 and beyond with the physical and mental capabilities of those much younger. A second key trait is engagement in new learning, especially related to something novel and challenging over a sustained period of time. This can be a return to school, but it doesn’t have to be. Think of painting, piano, or poetry. Within our own community people are learning everything from HeartMath to Integral Zen to Neurodharma. (I don’t even know what those are!)
Why New Learning Matters
Our brains have an amazing life-long capacity to form new neural networks through growth and reorganization in response to stimuli such as new learning. A fascinating 2014 study done at the University of Texas showed that older adults, aged 60-90, were able to significantly improve episodic memory—the ability to recall events within the context of time and place—through cognitively challenging tasks (1).
Participants made these improvements in a three-month period by investing about 16 hours a week learning a new skill: digital photography and/or quilting. These older adults performed far better on cognitive assessments than their counterparts who simply engaged in social activities or in passive music listening or TV watching.
While additional studies like this are needed, this particular research shows compelling evidence that memory function is improved by engagement in demanding everyday tasks.
How to Apply This
Our brains like to work. In fact, they thrive on it. Don’t shy away from new learning—embrace it! I have to remind myself of this every time I do battle with some new computer software or sign up for a class that seems over my head. Just like exercise can be uncomfortable, so can stretching our brains—but the payoff is significant!