Continual Learning to Protect Your Cognition

Some of us remember our school years fondly – surrounded by friends, extracurriculars, maybe even a few good teachers. However, the unfortunate truth about the western school system is that it tends to focus on getting the best grade, rather than actual learning. 

Most schools don’t teach study habits, and rely on memorization to gauge comprehension levels. This tends to instill a negative perception of “learning,” especially for those that absorb information best through other methods, like hands-on or completing projects. 

So, when we’re done with school, most of us don’t go out of our way to teach ourselves new things. But, novel experiences, including trying hobbies, learning topics, and meeting people, can keep the mind sharp into late adulthood. It can also break up the monotony of the day-to-day, reducing stress and boosting mood.

What’s the Science Here?

Contrary to popular belief, the brain can continue to form new connections well into adulthood. For a more in-depth explanation about this concept, called neuroplasticity, check out our post here.

New experiences strengthen the parts of the brain involved in memory, problem solving, and acquiring new skills, just like exercising any other muscle in the body. 

According to Wang et al., adults aged 65 and older, who attended as little as one training course a month, showed far less cognitive decline in all areas (memory, attention, problem solving, etc.). This was equivalent to a “6-year age difference in cognitive function.”

Think Young to Feel Young

Aging is often portrayed in the media incorrectly. Many adults can live into their 70s, 80s, and even 90s while maintaining independence and physical/mental capabilities. 

The issue is, these portrayals can become internalized. The more an individual believes this narrative to be true, the more they may act in a way that perpetuates it. 

Think of it like this. Ann is 70 years old, and has always heard from her parents that aging is painful and difficult. Her daughter urges her to take it easy. So, Ann stops moving around her house as much, avoids the stairs, and stops doing her daily yoga. 

Over time, Ann becomes weaker due to lack of movement. She takes this as a sign that she should move even less, and the cycle continues.

Of course, sometimes there are physical or mental ailments that cannot be avoided. But, daily movement, a balanced diet, socialization and continual learning can seriously slow the effects of many age-related diseases. 

Does it Matter When I Start?

The good news is, research suggests that the benefits of later-life learning appear even if the participants did not partake in these habits earlier. Meaning, whatever age you are, it’s never too late to begin! If you’re younger, start building the habits now, making it easier to continue later on. If you’re older, there’s no time like the present!

How Do I Even Start? 

For a less structured approach, think back to topics you’ve found fascinating in the past, or always wanted to learn more about. Remember, this isn’t school anymore! You can research whatever you’d like. 

For structured classes, check out some of the websites below that offer classes specifically for seniors. Most associations offer both in-person and online courses to increase accessibility. 

Westend Seniors Activity Centre: https://weseniors.ca/

Edmonton Lifelong Learners Association: https://my-ella.com/

Primary Care Network: https://www.edmontonsouthsidepcn.ca/scww/

For more information about keeping sharp while aging, book a free consultation with our clinic here. 

References

Wang, N., Xu, H., Dhingra, R., Xian, Y., McConnell, E. S., Wu, B., & Dupre, M. E. (2025). The impact of later-life learning on trajectories of cognitive function among U.S. older adults. Innovation in Aging. https://doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igaf023