Maintaining a long and physically healthy life is a common goal, but ensuring mental sharpness along the way is equally important. New research suggests that a simple, accessible habit—volunteering—can contribute significantly to this goal. A study tracking over 30,000 adults for two decades reveals that regular volunteering or informal help can potentially slow age-related cognitive decline.
The Study’s Findings: Two to Four Hours a Week Shows Greatest Benefit
Researchers analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study, a long-term research project, to examine the link between helping others and cognitive health. The findings, published in Social Science & Medicine, showed a compelling connection: individuals who volunteered their time or regularly assisted neighbors, relatives, or friends experienced 15 to 20 percent less cognitive decline compared to those who did not.
The most significant benefits appeared when individuals dedicated approximately two to four hours per week to helping others. This relatively modest time commitment could lead to a substantial impact on long-term brain health.
Why Helping Others Could Protect Your Brain
The observed link between volunteering and slower cognitive decline is likely due to several interconnected factors. “Volunteering and helping others engage both the brain and body in ways that protect against cognitive aging,” explains Sae Hwang Han, PhD, lead study author and associate professor at The University of Texas at Austin.
These activities offer a triple benefit:
- Social Connection: Volunteering fosters meaningful relationships and combats isolation, which are critical for brain health.
- Sense of Purpose: Contributing to a cause or helping others can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose, which can positively influence cognitive function.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Volunteering often involves problem-solving, learning new skills, and interacting with others, all of which can keep the brain active and engaged.
Faye Begeti, PhD, a neuroscientist at Oxford University Hospitals, emphasizes the importance of continued mental stimulation throughout life. “The key factor to prevent cognitive decline is to continue challenging our brains,” she says. “Volunteering is a wonderful way to do that.”
Beyond these factors, helping others might also reduce stress and inflammation—two elements known to be linked to cognitive decline.
What Kind of Volunteering Offers the Most Benefits?
According to the research, in-person volunteering appears to be most effective. Activities such as assisting at a soup kitchen or reading to children strengthen the social and psychological rewards that support cognitive health. However, remote or virtual volunteering can still be beneficial, especially if it involves meaningful human connection or provides cognitive stimulation.
It’s important to note that volunteering doesn’t have to be a formal commitment. Offering informal help, like watering a neighbor’s plants or providing assistance to a friend, can be just as impactful.
Putting it into Practice: Small Actions, Big Rewards
The study’s findings underscore the potential of even modest efforts to safeguard cognitive health. Dr. Han recommends aiming for about two to four hours a week—a manageable commitment that can yield considerable benefits.
“Even modest levels of helping—about two to four hours a week—can make a real difference for long-term cognitive health,” says Han.
Ultimately, prioritizing meaningful engagement with others isn’s just a benefit for the community – it’s good for your brain. By dedicating a small portion of our time to help others, we can potentially support our cognitive function and enjoy a sharper, healthier mind as we age
