“Use it or lose it” says researchers. It seems that the old saying can be used in many ways, including brainpower. Carole Dufouil, a French scientist stated in a recent study that for every year you delay retirement, your risk of acquiring dementia decreases by 3%. Hit the jump for more info.
It seems that working tends to keep people physically active, socially connected and mentally challenged – all things known to help prevent mental decline. At the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Boston, Dufouil stated that while there is no cure or treatment for Alzheimer’s, America’s most common form of dementia, one way to delay it’s occurrence is to stay at work.
However, Heather Snyder, director of medical and scientific operations for the Alzheimer’s Association, said “the study results don’t mean everyone needs to delay retirement. It’s more staying cognitively active, staying socially active, continue to be engaged in whatever it is that’s enjoyable to you that’s important.”
In that case remember to do what you can, while you can.
