The brain is an amazing organ, supplied with its own mechanism for bypassing anomalies, such as those caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Cognitive reserve is the term used for the brain’s ability to find alternative methods of processing information. Think of cognitive reserve as an engine of sorts, with the ability to switch gears when extra power is required to operate efficiently. But, what, exactly, is cognitive reserve and where does it originate from?
Cognitive reserve was discovered in the late 80’s, when scientists discovered people with no outward symptoms of AD, who were found—upon autopsy—to have brain changes consistent with advanced Alzheimer’s disease. The reason these people did not exhibit memory problems or cognitive deficits, was because their cognitive reserve levels were impactful enough to stave off symptoms.
Two Types of Brain Reserve
Cognitive reserve is a result of using the brain over the lifetime for purposes such as education and other mentally stimulating activities.
There are 2 different types of cognitive reserve, including brain reserve and cognitive reserve. Brain reserve refers to the differences in the structure of the brain, that may account for an increased tolerance to pathology (disease). Cognitive reserve refers to the difference in how people respond to brain changes. A better understanding of cognitive reserve could help scientists discover new interventions, which could help slow down cognitive aging and lower the risk of dementia.
Cognitive Reserve Studies
Studies found that lifelong experiences, such as education and occupational attainment as well as late life leisure activities, are factors that promote a robust cognitive reserve level. People with greater cognitive reserve levels were able to offset symptoms of degenerative brain changes, associated with neurological conditions such as, stroke, Parkinson’s, or Alzheimer’s disease.
In fact, one of the most persuasive studies ever, on AD, involved a research study about cognitive reserve. The study was conducted by Yaakov Stern, Cognitive Neuroscience Division, Department of Neurology and Taub Institute, Columbia University College of physicians and Surgeons.
Study Conclusion
Data from 593 people, who were dementia-free, all over age 60, were analyzed. Those with under 8 years of education ended up with 2.2 times higher risk of developing dementia—compared to those with more years of education. In addition to studying cognitive reserve and education, the scientists also measured the impact of occupational attainment on cognitive reserve. For example, a low, unskilled trade worker was compared to an office secretary, a government worker, a business owner and a manager, as well as a technical professional. The study participants with low lifetime occupational attainment also had a 2.2 times higher risk of getting dementia. The study concluded that an advanced degree and a high level of professional attainment were both associated with increasing cognitive reserve in the brain.
Conclusion
It’s possible to estimate your level of cognitive reserve, simply by looking at how many years of education, and/or occupational success one has. Building and sustaining cognitive reserve over a person’s lifetime is an important Alzheimer’s prevention goal.
