Do you love your job? Depending on your field of work, your job could be working for you by helping to reduce your risk of dementia. Check out the types of jobs that contribute to better brain health and some reasons you should push back your retirement date.
Which careers could help you stay sharp?
Jobs that require complex social engagement are the best to help deter brain diseases. Tasks like mentoring, negotiating or teaching are best for your brain, according to a recent study. A mentally-engaging, social profession, like that of teachers, lawyers and social workers, can possibly lessen your chances of cognitive decline.
The study showed it doesn’t matter how complex, complicated or important your job is; what matters is that you have regular engagement with your peers. The study’s participants who worked with other people throughout their life had better brain health than those who did not.
Reasons to Keep Working
Another study tested the benefits of retiring later in life, and they found continuing to work can be good for you. Participants of the study who pushed back retirement after age 65 lived longer than those who retired early. This is because working has surprising life benefits like:
- Sense of purpose
- Constant social interaction
- Increased physical activity
- Financial security
- Intellectual stimulation
When deciding on whether or not to retire early, consider if your work is meaningful. If you work a high-stress job, it may be worth it to stop working. Whenever you do decide to retire, experts suggest you create a plan for continuing social interaction, intellectual stimulation and physical exercise. Try volunteering. A life with purpose has been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Need more tips for better brain health?
Thinking about your brain health and making wise decisions to help stay sharp for years to come is important at any phase in life. See how your lifestyle choices are impacting your brain health by taking our free brain check-up. Then, start making a plan to stay social and keep your brain active, whether you’re working or not.
