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Use It-and Keep It, Longer, Probably: A Reply to Salthouse (2006)
1National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland carmi.schooler@nih.gov.
Summary
Engaging in mental exercise, or "using it," can delay cognitive decline associated with aging, challenging the "use it or lose it" hypothesis. This study critically examines existing data to support the benefits of cognitive engagement for healthy brain aging.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Psychology of Aging
Background:
- The "use it or lose it" hypothesis suggests cognitive abilities decline without use.
- Salthouse's (2006) work questioned the validity of this hypothesis in relation to mental exercise and aging.
- Existing literature and theoretical reasoning on cognitive aging require critical re-evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically assess Salthouse's (2006) conclusions regarding the "use it or lose it" hypothesis.
- To evaluate the relationship between mental exercise, cognitive function, and aging using novel data.
- To determine the extent to which cognitive engagement impacts age-related cognitive decline.
Main Methods:
- Critical analysis of theoretical reasoning and literature review presented by Salthouse (2006).
- Incorporation and analysis of data not previously discussed by Salthouse.
- Comparative assessment of findings to challenge or support existing conclusions on cognitive aging.
Main Results:
- Salthouse's (2006) conclusions disparaging the "use it or lose it" hypothesis are questioned.
- Data analysis suggests that cognitive engagement can indeed influence the trajectory of cognitive aging.
- The effectiveness of mental exercise in delaying cognitive decline is supported by the evidence presented.
Conclusions:
- While the complete picture of cognitive function and aging remains complex, the "use it or lose it" principle holds validity.
- Consistent mental exercise ("using it") demonstrably delays age-related cognitive decline ("losing it") to some degree.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the mechanisms and extent of cognitive engagement's protective effects.
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