The next time your spouse drives you absolutely crazy, keep in mind that he, or she, is probably helping to keep your brain healthy. That is because the challenges that our spouses give us, along with the love and support, may actually be protecting our brains. In fact, according to a recent study, sharing a life with another person means that we are less likely to develop cognitive impairment than single people who are not married.
The study took place in Scandinavia and included 1,400 men and women. Married people are simply less likely to develop dementia than single people. The protection against dementia when you are married even extends to those who are high risk of Alzheimer’s. In fact, those with an Alzheimer risk showed the greatest rate of protection. In other words, marriage offers a greater chance at a healthy brain for all people, but those with a risk of dementia (including having a direct relative with the disease), should take special note. Marriage may just make the difference between succumbing to the disease and maintaining a healthy brain.
Why did this study get these results? Well, one theory is that being in a marriage keeps you challenged. You are less likely to get into a rut or routine because there is another person there who also has ways of doing things. The give and take of marriage may make your brain have to work harder, and the frequent firing of neurons may have something to do with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s.
What if you want to lower your risk but have no intention of getting married? Reap the benefits by establishing close friendships and a rich social life, and make sure to include plenty of fun but challenging hobbies and activities to keep your brain active and healthy.
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