Cognitive decline, or the change in functions such as mental processing, memory, or physical movement, naturally comes as people get older and their brains age. But can a late retirement delay the progression?

Researchers analyzed data from over 20,000 participants in the U.S. Health and Retirement Study. Available data included cognitive testing results, employment status, medical history, and other demographic information.  

Results? People who retired from age 67 and above slowed their cognitive decline by 30-34% compared to those who retired younger. Researchers did not find any differences in the results based on age, gender, or occupation. They also found that retirement age does not affect cognitive functioning differently due to depression or medical conditions. However, they found that people with some college education had an even larger, 50% reduction of cognitive decline when retiring later.  

Working helps keep our brains active, protecting against cognitive decline. Find meaning in your work and a career that you are passionate about to work longer. Upon retirement get active in volunteer or part-time work using your skills and brain to continue to stimulate your brain health! 

Written by Robin N. Fatovic

Reference: Hale, J. M., Bijlsma, M. J., & Lorenti, A. (2020). Does postponing retirement affect cognitive function? A counterfactual experiment to disentangle life course risk factors. https://doi.org/10.4054/mpidr-wp-2020-013