Change Is Good for the Brain: Activity Diversity and Cognitive Functioning Across Adulthood
Soomi Lee1, Susan T Charles2, David M Almeida3
1School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa.
Summary
Engaging in diverse daily activities is linked to better cognitive health in adults. Maintaining or increasing activity diversity over time is associated with enhanced overall and executive cognitive functions.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Participating in diverse daily activities (activity diversity) may enhance cognitive functioning by requiring adaptation to varied situations and behaviors.
- This study investigates the relationship between activity diversity and cognitive function throughout adulthood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the associations between activity diversity and cognitive functioning across adulthood.
- To determine if changes in activity diversity over time impact cognitive health.
Main Methods:
- Activity diversity was measured as the breadth and evenness of participation in seven daily domains.
- Data from 732 adults (mean age 56) were collected over 10 years (Wave 1 and Wave 2), including cognitive assessments at Wave 2.
Main Results:
- Higher activity diversity at Wave 2 correlated with better overall and executive cognitive functioning.
- Individuals who increased their activity diversity from Wave 1 to Wave 2 showed improved cognitive scores.
- Sustained or increased activity diversity was linked to superior cognitive performance (overall, executive, episodic memory) compared to decreased diversity.
Conclusions:
- Activity diversity plays a significant role in maintaining cognitive health in adulthood.
- Further research should explore the causal direction and underlying mechanisms linking activity diversity and cognitive function.
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