Daily reading aloud, handwriting, and simple math exercises can improve memory and cognitive functions in older adults, according to researchers writing in Educational Gerontology. The study evaluated 102 people over the age of 59 who participated in a 12-week program called StrongerMemory.
Participants spent 10 minutes every day reading aloud, handwriting, and completing simple arithmetic exercises. They also attended weekly group meetings designed to support their motivation throughout the 12-week period.
Test Results and Improvements
After completing the program, the average score on a brief cognitive ability test increased from 12.73 to 13.26 points out of a maximum 15 points. Researchers noted that the most significant gains occurred in tasks measuring word memorization and recall, while participants also gave higher self-evaluations of their memory compared to the previous year.
The strongest improvements occurred among older adults who continued living independently, whereas residents of nursing homes showed lower scores. Researchers noted that the study lacked a control group, meaning the potential influence of regular social contact, participant expectations, or repeated testing cannot be ruled out.
The findings follow earlier reporting that regular physical activity slows cognitive decline in people with dementia.
