Research published in Nature Medicine suggests that education is linked to better memory performance until a certain age, but does not provide the same protection against decline as once thought. A large-scale analysis of over 407,000 participants showed that higher education levels were associated with larger brain volumes and improved episodic memory, but did not slow down age-related cognitive decline.
Studies have long debated whether education reduces brain decline related to aging or simply reflects higher early-life cognitive function. Researchers aimed to resolve this debate by conducting a mega-analysis of data from multiple longitudinal cohorts across 33 countries. The study found that while older adults experience age-related cognitive decline, the association between education level and rate of memory decline was negligible.
However, individuals with more education did tend to have larger brain volumes and improved episodic memory throughout their lives. This suggests that education may provide a “head start” in terms of cognitive abilities, but does not act as a shield against age-related decline. Regular mental stimulation, social engagement, and physical exercise are still key factors in maintaining cognitive health.
The study’s findings contribute to our understanding of age-related cognitive decline and highlight the importance of early-life education in shaping long-term cognitive outcomes.
Source: https://www.psypost.org/popular-cognitive-reserve-theory-challenged-by-massive-new-study-on-education-and-aging