New Learning Keeps Brain Healthy

Ever notice how one of your parents in their later years picks up the game of Bridge?  They find a local Bridge group to get into, learn the game, and all of the sudden they feel mentally alert again. Now there is scientific evidence that as we age we can hang onto our cognitive abilities, and memories, by learning something new.  According to UC Irvine neurobiologists Lulu Chen and Christine Gall, everyday forms of learning animate neuron receptors that help keep the brain cells functioning at optimum levels. These receptors are activated by a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which facilitates the growth and differentiation of the connections, or synapses, responsible for communication among neurons. Brain-Derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF, is key in the formation of memories.  Their findings confirm a critical relationship between learning and brain growth. In addition to discovering that brain activity sets off BDNF signaling at the sites where neurons develop synapses, researchers determined that this process is linked to learning-related brain rhythms, called theta rhythms, vital to the encoding of new memories.  These relationships provide the necessary evidence for maintaining good brain health.  The researchers point to evidence that theta rhythms weaken as we age, and suggest that this can result in memory impairment. On the other hand, they suggest that staying mentally active as we age can keep neuronal BDNF signaling at a constant rate, which may limit memory and cognitive decline. Researchers are now exploring whether learning-induced growth signals decrease with age and, if so, whether this can be reversed with a new family of experimental drugs.  Even if you think you know it all, you are never to old to learn something new.  Consider the possibilities of learning a new hobby, or taking a class in something you always wanted to learn to keep those brain synapses firing away.  Traveling, volunteering, or even learning an instrument or language, at any age can keep your brain healthy and young.