A May 2025 Scientific American study found that gaining new knowledge sustained improvements in attention and working memory among adults aged 58 to 86, effectively countering age-related mental declines. After a year, participants achieved skill levels equivalent to those of people 50 years younger.
Harvard Health (updated December 2025) notes that building cognitive reserve through lifelong education, curiosity, and mentally engaging activities — like learning new skills — helps the brain improvise and maintain functions such as focus and memory despite age-related changes.
Nonprofits such as Chicago-based Mather help older people find a new sense of purpose in retirement. By providing thousands of hours of virtual programming, the organization helps older adults stay active and creative, forming meaningful connections and discovering new skills.
