Here's why learning continuously is good for your mental health and happiness in old age

Engaging in new knowledge and skills acts as a workout for the brain. It enhances cognitive functions, such as memory and problem-solving abilities, and improves mental flexibility (Image: Pixabay)

As you age, if you notice a reluctance to learn new things, don't take it lightly. This shift might not only affect your mental well-being but also jeopardise your happiness.

Learning is more than obtaining a degree. It is the foundation of a happy life that nurtures physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Just like the body needs exercise, the mind also requires constant stimulation and growth. In today's fast-growing world, full of technological advancements and the busy modern living, continuous learning has become imperative to not just survive but also to thrive.

Stagnation is the silent enemy that slowly creeps into your lives when you cease learning. Its symptoms could include lack of enthusiasm, diminished problem-solving abilities, and a sense of disconnect from the world's pulse. Stagnation cripples your adaptability, leaving you vulnerable to change.

According to the Delaware Academy of Medicine / Delaware Public Health Association, lifelong learning fights cognitive decline by enhancing mental engagement and social ties. Lifestyle factors such as hypertension, smoking, obesity, depression, and others are modifiable risks identified in studies on ageing and cognitive decline. Low education and limited social interaction also significantly contribute to these factors.

Here’s why you should practice lifelong learning for your mental well-being and happiness:

Mental wellness: Engaging in new knowledge and skills acts as a workout for the brain. It enhances cognitive functions, such as memory and problem-solving abilities, and improves mental flexibility. All these are important for adapting to changing circumstances. Studies show that learning new things stimulates the formation of new neural connections in the brain, improving overall cognitive function and potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline in later years.

Contentment: Learning isn't just about gaining information; it's about feeling accomplished and purposeful. When you master a skill, your brain releases dopamine, the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter. This release of dopamine creates a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment, thus positively impacting your mental health. This sense of purpose can promote mental resilience against stress and depression.

Adjustability: Actively engaging in learning equips you with adaptive tools that are vital for managing stress in the face of change. Studies have shown that continuous learning contributes to the development of psychological strength and reduces the negative impact of stress hormones on the body. By staying mentally active and adaptable, you can explore newer situations and technologies and improve  your mental and physical health.

Improves bonds: Acquiring new knowledge often involves interacting with different people, communities and sharing experiences. These interactions encourage empathy and also strengthen your communication skills. Loneliness harms cognition, speeds decline, and heightens sensitivity to social threats, while engaging in social connections and community activities positively impacts mental and emotional well-being and also combats feelings of loneliness and promotes a sense of belonging.

Inner strength: Learning is also about building resilience. By actively seeking new knowledge, you develop a mindset that allows you to bounce back from setbacks with greater ease. This mental resilience helps to manage emotions, fight anxiety, and lend a more positive outlook on life.

Lifelong development: The pursuit of knowledge is not just confined to specific stages of life; it is  a lifelong journey. Studies suggest that adopting a growth mindset promotes a healthier stress response and helps individuals cope better with challenges.