An Active Brain May Help Keep Alzheimer's at Bay
(NY, Reuters Health, 6/28/07)

As part of Chicago’s Rush University Medical Center Memory and Aging Project, Robert S. Wilson, and team, gathered data on problems with memory and thought processes from more than 700 elderly adults. The researchers also questioned participants on their participation in such activities as reading, attending events and writing letters. The investigators then administered cognitive tests to the subjects for up to 5 years. The results of the tests showed a link between frequent involvement in activities that engage mental processes and a reduced risk of mental decline and Alzheimer's disease. These findings indicate that adequate mental activity in old age reduces the probability of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

(Neurology, June 2007)