In the smartphone era, where everyone has easy access to online information, how long has it been since you last read a book or wrote something by hand? It is well-known that reading is beneficial. However, beyond increasing knowledge, research has found that reading can keep the mind sharp, delay cognitive decline, and prevent the onset of dementia.
Overcoming reading difficulties through training
According to Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) research, children with reading difficulties show significantly lower activation in the brain’s parietal-temporal region than control groups. However, these children can develop sharper brains after 100 hours of intensive tutoring and reading comprehension strategy training. Researchers also found that the areas of the brain that were under-activated due to reading difficulties were normalized after overcoming these deficits.
Reading novels activates the brain
A 2013 study published in the journal Brain Connectivity reported the impact of reading novels on the brain. The study found that reading novels strengthens neural connections in specific brain regions. Even after putting the book down, brain activation continues for some time, though the duration of this effect remains to be studied. Through this mechanism, reading stories enhances language processing areas and influences individuals through the sensory-motor regions’ concrete semantics, helping the brain visualize the plot and making readers feel as if they are experiencing the events themselves.
“A good book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading.” (From Conversations with William Styron) Reading a good book can activate the brain and change one’s life and perspective.
Reading prevents dementia and delays brain aging
Elderly individuals who read regularly are 2.5 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who watch television frequently. Reading requires continuous concentration and processing of textual information, which helps improve cognitive functions such as memory, thinking, and comprehension. The brain is activated when reading, and connections between neurons are strengthened, enhancing overall brain function and keeping the mind sharp.
A 2021 study published in the journal Neurology found that cognitive activities like reading can delay the onset of dementia by five years. A 2023 study found that engaging in mental activities such as reading in later life can reduce the risk of dementia. Reading helps reduce anxiety and feelings of isolation, and some experts believe that daily reading helps preserve memory and language skills, thereby slowing the progression of dementia.
Reading improves brain health by enhancing cognitive abilities, preventing dementia, improving focus, and delaying brain aging. Pick up a book and develop a regular reading habit to invest long-term in your brain’s health.
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