Cambridge University Research: Reading Protects Mental Health and Reduces the Risk of Alzheimer's by 33%

A comprehensive study conducted by the University of Cambridge in England revealed that regular reading for pleasure protects mental health, rapidly reduces stress, and reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's in older ages by approximately one third.

In the study, cognitive and neurological data of tens of thousands of people from childhood to older ages were examined. In the analysis, it was determined that children who acquired the habit of reading books at an early age had higher levels of attention, memory and academic success, and they improved their sleep quality by spending less time in front of the screen.

'IT REDUCES THE RISK OF ALZHEIMER BY 33 PERCENT'

As a result of the research, it was noted that reading creates a strong shield against cognitive decline in old age. In the data where approximately 6 thousand people aged 55 and over were followed for five years, it was determined that the likelihood of mental decline was significantly reduced in individuals who regularly read books, newspapers and magazines, and the risk of Alzheimer's was reduced by 33 percent.

'FIVE MINUTES OF READING REDUCES STRESS BY 20 PERCENT'

Brain imaging scans found that the act of reading strengthens neural connections in the cortical regions of the brain that manage memory, learning and emotional control.

Researchers also point out that even just five minutes spent focusing on a fictional text can reduce stress levels by up to 20 percent; reported that book clubs or shared family reading activities further increased cognitive benefits.