Memories

Memory declines by old age. You may be doing Crosswords, Sudoku, Wordle, DuoLingo or similar already. That is great. 

A 2019¹ studyTrusted Source researched the effect of computerised cognitive training (in areas such as reasoning, memory, language, and attention) on the progression of mild cognitive impairment. Results of the study showed that the training increased the brain’s grey matter volume and may help preserve general cognition².

I am learning Italian on Duolingo, a language learning app. It includes visual and audial sensory input that flex your memory. It combines fun and adjustable dose of stress that is necessary for learning.

I am now on my 39th consecutive day; I wake up, drink a glass of water, put my headphones on and study Italian with Duolingo for one hour. 

It is a great way to start your day. I feel exhilarated after that. 

It is too early to claim benefits, but it is fun. And it is not just potential benefits but other prospects interest me. I may join Italian talking groups one day, or start reading or listening to Italian radio. I don’t think I can ever talk in Italian fluently unless I move to Italy. But that is not my goal. 

💡Set yourself realistic goals   

Learning a new language is my second most important habit after waking up early. 

1: Cognitive Health and Older Adults

2: Best Brain Stimulating Games for Dementia and Why They Work