London: A new 16-year study has found that a positive mindset may help protect against memory decline in middle age. Researchers from the UK, US, and Spain tracked over 10,000 adults aged 50 and above, revealing that those with higher psychological well-being were likelier to maintain stronger memory function over time.
Published in Ageing & Mental Health, the research followed participants from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Memory and well-being were assessed every two years between 2002 and 2018. Well-being was measured using a questionnaire that evaluated life satisfaction, autonomy, and a sense of control. Participants also completed word recall memory tasks.
Lead author Dr Amber John from the University of Liverpool explained that the study found a small but consistent link between well-being and memory scores, even after adjusting for depression. While the data does not prove causation, well-being may play a protective role in brain health.
The study did not find that better memory led to improved well-being, but the researchers say that the possibility can’t be entirely ruled out. Co-author Professor Joshua Stott of UCL added that this work offers new insights into the relationship between emotional health and cognitive function.
Experts believe improving psychological well-being—through activities like mindfulness, social connection, and purposeful living—could help delay cognitive decline. Biological and lifestyle factors like cardiovascular health, activity levels, and social engagement may also influence the well-being-memory link.
Dr. Emily Willroth, a co-author from Washington University, emphasised the need for further research to identify practical strategies for supporting memory and brain health as people age.
The study was funded by Alzheimer’s Research UK, the UK Medical Research Council, the National Institute on Ageing, and the National Institute for Health and Care Research.
Emma Taylor of Alzheimer’s Research UK said the findings highlight the role of mental health in dementia prevention. She encouraged people to care for their emotional well-being as part of overall brain health.
