The Lifelong Learner         by Stanley Kubasek | About Me |

Over time, is a cause of memory loss, according to Harvard's Improving Memory publication.

Over time, people who don't challenge their minds exhibit a greater degree of memory decline compared with people who remain mentally active. According to a 2005 study, people who held jobs that involved complex work, such as speaking to, instructing, or negotiating with people, had a lower risk of dementia than people whose jobs were less intellectually demanding.

Most experts think it's not the years of formal education or the type of occupation per se that benefits memory. Instead, a lifelong habit of learning and engaging in mentally challenging activities -- like reading, playing chess, performing music, or acquiring new skills -- is thought to help keep the brain in shape.

Scientists believe that intellectual enrichment and learning stimulate the brain to make more connections, increasing the density of synapses. As a result, the "educated brain" may possess greater reserves of cognitive ability -- a deeper well, so to speak -- and be able to sustain more neuronal loss. Researchers refer to this enhancement of skills or abilities as cognitive reserve. In addition to increasing neuronal connections, mental activity sets into motion a host of processes that keep neurons and their interconnections alive and well.

Reference
Improving Memory, Report from Harvard Medical School