Impact of Mentally Stimulating Jobs on Cognitive Health

SOURCE www.theguardian.com
People in routine and repetitive jobs have a higher risk of disease and cognitive problems later in life. Jobs that require more mental stimulation can protect against cognitive decline. Education and mentally challenging tasks at work help build cognitive reserve, delaying mental decline.

Key Points

  • Jobs with more mental demands are associated with better cognitive health in older age
  • Education plays a significant role in building cognitive reserve and delaying mental decline
  • Further education and pursuing cognitively challenging activities outside of work can benefit those in less mentally stimulating jobs

Pros

  • Mentally stimulating jobs can protect against cognitive decline in later life
  • Education and mentally challenging tasks at work help build cognitive reserve

Cons

  • People in routine and repetitive jobs have a higher risk of disease and cognitive problems
  • Less mentally stimulating jobs may lead to mild cognitive impairment or dementia