A recent study out of Norway has shed light on the impact of job requirements on cognitive health later in life. The study followed 7,000 individuals from their 30s until retirement and found a concerning link between routine jobs and cognitive decline.
According to the study, individuals who worked routine jobs with little mental stimulation during their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s were found to have a 66% higher risk of mild cognitive impairment and a 37% greater risk of dementia after the age of 70. Jobs that involved repetitive manual and mental tasks, such as factory work and bookkeeping, were particularly associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline.
On the other hand, jobs that required complex thinking and interpersonal skills were linked to better cognitive health. Attending college was found to help reduce the impact of a repetitive job on cognitive health, but did not fully negate the risk.
Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining cognitive engagement through work that includes creative thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. Additionally, adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle, including following a Mediterranean-style diet, limiting alcohol intake, not smoking, managing vascular risk factors, and getting adequate sleep, can help protect against cognitive decline.
The study underscores the significance of challenging and intellectually stimulating work assignments in preserving cognitive health. Experts recommend staying mentally engaged, learning new things, and remaining socially active as key strategies to protect cognitive health as individuals age. By prioritizing cognitive engagement and implementing brain-healthy lifestyle habits, individuals can take proactive steps to fend off dementia and maintain cognitive function in the long run.
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