Working Through Retirement Reduces Risk Of Alzheimer's By More Than 3% A Year

Working Through Retirement Reduces Risk Of Alzheimer’s By More Than 3% A Year

by Karoline King

The average age a senior is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is 80, reports CBS News. Cognitive decline is often reported in the lead up to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis and one reason cited for this is due to seniors stepping away from the workplace. The typical American retires at the age of 63, according to data from the U.S. Census. However, by taking on a basic and non-stressful job, seniors can benefit from better brain health and cognitive function.

What science says

Scientists say that every extra year that a senior works reduces their risk of dementia by 3.2%. Following an extensive study, researchers in France concluded that working positively impacted cognitive function and cut the chances of dementia developing. Similar findings were previously published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, which led to scientific advisor Simon Lovestone stating that seniors experience mental stimulation while working that ensures they are “above the threshold for dementia”.

Jobs to consider

It’s important that seniors who return to the workplace take on a suitable job that will benefit their cognitive abilities. Research shows that seniors are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s if they take on a job where they get to mix with other individuals. This is most likely to be because there’s less stress on the job, social opportunities arise, and help is always on hand. As such, a minimum pay entry-level job in retail, telecommunications, or fundraising for charity are ideal positions. Such careers will typically earn the senior minimum wage which is currently $7.25 per hour in America. But, best off all, their brain function will remain in good health.

Better cognitive health

A work environment is a positive place for seniors aiming to stave off Alzheimer’s disease. This is because having to socially interact with people, meet expectations, think quickly, and retain information can prevent a retiree from withdrawing from society and avoiding mentally stimulating situations. Both of these things are risk factors for Alzheimer’s and should be avoided where possible. Thankfully, committing to a job will ensure that seniors positively work towards keeping Alzheimer’s at bay.

The majority of Americans are retiring in their early 60s. However, research shows that this could be detrimental to their health and put them at risk of developing Alzheimer’s. It’s, therefore, advisable that they take on a non-strenuous job that will see them keep their cognitive health in good working order.

Thank you for writing this article Karoline King.

Karoline King spent many years in care homes, before leaving to spend more time with her young children. She now works from home, following her passion of freelance writing.

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