Naming multiple pets may extend their life spans.
New Study Offers Simple Method to Evaluate Elderly Longevity and Mental Sharpness
According to researchers, elderly individuals who can recall a significant number of animals within a specific timeframe may have a longer lifespan and maintain mental sharpness. This simple and straightforward test, known as "fluency," was administered to 516 participants aged 70 to over 100 (average age 85) over an 18-year study period.
Those who could name numerous animals within 90 seconds demonstrated a longer average lifespan. Researchers found that a higher number of animals recalled indicated a lower risk of early death. In contrast, those who struggled to recall animals had shorter lifespans on average.
The study, reported in the journal Psychological Science, suggests that regularly exercising the brain through such activities can help maintain and potentially improve verbal fluency, consequently increasing lifespan. There is no need to repeat the same tests repeatedly; various mental exercises can stimulate the brain, such as creating words from a single word, playing the "cities" game by naming a city starting with the last letter of the previous one, or solving puzzles.
Research on the "prophetic" power of verbal fluency tests showed that they are closely linked to brain health. The authors believe deterioration in results indicates significant physiological issues in key brain regions, leading to cognitive decline, impairment, and a shorter life. Furthermore, scientists found no mystique in the test results and attributed them to lawful, neurophysiological processes.
In conclusion, regular mental training to maintain or improve verbal fluency increases lifespan. Visiting elderly relatives and playing the "animals" game can provide insights into their brain health and longevity potential.
Animal testing in medical research is a topic of debate; it has contributed to advancements in human and animal health, but alternatives are increasingly available. The study in question does not involve animal testing for cognitive or psychological assessments. Instead, it involves participants naming animals as a test of verbal fluency.
Engaging in mental exercises, such as naming animals, is linked to brain health and may potentially improve verbal fluency, which in turn could prolong one's lifespan. Regular mental activities, like playing the "animals" game, can serve as a means to evaluate an elderly person's cognitive health and predict their longevity.
