Can reading and maths keep your brain sharp as you age?

Hi everyone, how are you doing today? 😊

We often hear that cognitive decline is inevitable with age, but a new study published in Science Advances challenges this belief. Researchers found that regularly practicing maths and reading can help prevent cognitive decline, and in some cases, even improve skills over time!

📖 The study tested language and maths in people aged 16 to 65 and followed up after 3.5 years.
🔢 Those who regularly engaged in maths and reading maintained or even improved their skills.
📉 Cognitive decline was only observed in those who had below-average skills to begin with.
👩‍🔬 Women’s maths declined more sharply than men’s over time.

This study highlights the importance of lifelong learning, whether it’s reading books, doing mental maths, or engaging in brain-stimulating activities.

Do you make an effort to keep your mind sharp? How often do you read or do maths in your daily life?

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Looking forward to your thoughts,

Somya from the Carenity Team 🌼

Source: Hanushek, E. A., Kinne, L., Witthöft, F., & Woessmann, L. (2025). Age and cognitive skills: Use it or lose it. Science Advances, 11(10).