The Photo Times: Over 60s should do digital photography not crosswords to keep memory sharp

The study, published in Psychological Science, suggests older adults need to

choose certain activities to help their long term memories as they age.

The study involved 221 people aged 60 to 90 who were split into groups to

learn digital photography, quilting or both for 15 hours a week over three

months. Others listened to classical music and completed crosswords or were

put into groups that did social activities.

Dr Park said: “The findings suggest engagement alone is not enough. The

three learning groups were pushed very hard to keep learning more and

mastering more tasks and skills. Only the groups that were confronted with

continuous and prolonged mental challenge improved.”

The researchers plan to follow up with the participants after one year and

five years to see if the effects remain.

Dr Park added: “Our participants essentially agreed to be assigned

randomly to different lifestyles for three months so we could compare how

different social and learning environments affected the mind.

“People built relationships and learned new skills – we hope these are

gifts that keep on giving and continue to be a source of engagement and

stimulation even after they finished the study.

â€This is speculation but what if challenging mental activity slows the rate at

which the brain ages? Every year you save could be an added year of high

quality life and independence.”

Article source: http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/lifestyle/music/photo-gallery-swedish-house-mafia-at-milton-keynes-bowl-1-4059597