The Power of learning like a child…
Wednesday, March 27, 2024.
Unlocking Cognitive Youth: How Simultaneous Learning Resurrects Aging Brains
In a groundbreaking study led by Dr. Rachel Wu, older adults discovered the fountain of cognitive youth, achieving mental prowess akin to that of teenagers.
By embracing a childlike approach to learning—immersing themselves in multiple disciplines simultaneously—individuals in their 60’s rewound the clock on their cognitive abilities.
Over the course of 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, participants displayed continuous enhancements in attention, memory, and other cognitive skills, with some metrics showing two to threefold improvements. The study, encompassing 33 folks predominantly in their 60’s and 70’s, unveiled the transformative power of immersive learning.
How the study was conducted
Each participant embarked on a journey of discovery, delving into at least three novel skills, ranging from photography and painting to music, language acquisition, and iPad proficiency. Through a regimen of approximately 15 hours per week of coursework and homework spanning three months, participants immersed themselves in a rich tapestry of learning experiences.
The findings, as elucidated by the study's authors, underscore the profound impact of simultaneous acquisition of real-world skills on cognitive vitality in older adulthood. They advocate for the virtues of lifelong learning as a potent tool for enhancing cognitive abilities among seniors.
What's truly remarkable is that the cognitive gains persisted even after the cessation of active learning. Dr. Rachel Wu emphasized the significance of this discovery, noting that cognitive scores surged to levels commensurate with those of undergraduates encountering cognitive tests for the first time.
Central to this cognitive rejuvenation is the emulation of a childlike learning approach, as suggested by previous research. The study posits that the magic lies in embracing multiple tasks concurrently within a supportive environment. Indeed, the time and energy invested mirror a full undergraduate course load, highlighting the commitment required for such transformative results.
The tenets of learning like a child include approaching new information with an open mind, embracing simultaneous learning, being receptive to instruction, being resilient to criticism, and fostering a belief in the power of effort-driven improvement. These principles serve as guiding lights for older adults seeking to unlock the full potential of their aging brains.
In essence, the study heralds a new era of cognitive empowerment for seniors, showcasing the transformative effects of lifelong learning. By embracing a childlike curiosity and immersing themselves in diverse learning experiences, older adults can rewrite the narrative of cognitive decline, embarking on a journey of continuous growth and rejuvenation.
“Remarkably, the cognitive scores increased to levels similar to undergraduates taking the same cognitive tests for the first time.” – Dr Rachel Wu
Not only did participants’ cognitive skills triple by some measures, but the increases continued after the active learning had finished.
Dr. Rachel Wu, study co-author, said:
“Remarkably, the cognitive scores increased to levels similar to undergraduates taking the same cognitive tests for the first time.
Our finding of continuous cognitive growth in older adulthood is unique because most studies show only maintenance of cognitive abilities or cognitive decline over time.”
Learning like a child…
The researchers think the key to these increases is learning multiple tasks simultaneously while doing so in an encouraging environment. I’d want to roll back that assumption and revisit the results through the lens of sifting for detectable differences.
Do all brains learn best this way? Did any of the study subjects exhibit any differences?
Learning like a child is seems to be essential for older adults; previous studies have suggested:
Approach new information with an open mind,
Be willing to learn multiple tasks at once.
Be receptive to instruction.
Don’t worry about criticism.
And believe that improvements can be made with effort!
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
REFERENCES:
Leah Ferguson, Debaleena Sain, Esra Kürüm, Carla M. Strickland-Hughes, George W. Rebok & Rachel Wu (2023) One-year cognitive outcomes from a multiple real-world skill learning intervention with older adults, Aging & Mental Health, 27:11, 2134-2143, DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2197847
