Research shows adults not keeping brains healthy

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Adults are failing to recognise the importance of keeping the brain healthy and active in later life, according to new evidence published by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).

The research study commissioned by the LSC’s agenda for change revealed that 56% of respondents believed the brain only begins to decline at age 45 or later.

Whilst a third of all people interviewed spend between £20-100 per month on exercising their body, the same number make no effort to exercise and stimulate the brain.

LSC’s agenda for change champion, Ray Dowd explained: “The results show that people do not recognise the need to train the brain throughout life, with a lack of awareness about the benefits of structured learning, which is one of the best ways to ensure the brain remains challenged and stimulated at any age”.

The majority of respondents (88%) read books to stimulate their brain, while 84% completed crosswords or puzzles; just under a fifth of respondents studied through evening classes.

“Further Education can provide the route to structured learning, and offers a huge choice of courses, which are frequently subsidised and accessible to everyone”, Mr Dowd continued.

“Investing in structured learning will keep your brain active and have a positive impact on health and well-being which goes towards maintaining employability and improving the quality of life”.

Professor of Psychology at Dublin’s Trinity College, Ian Robertson added: “Exercising your brain is essential if you want to stop it from slowly deteriorating. Our brains need to be stimulated and challenged through ongoing learning in the same way as our bodies need to be kept fit”.

“This will ensure we see off the ravages of time which contribute to the decline of cognitive power”.

Jason Seebaruth.

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