Educational Attainment Outperforms Heart Health in Predicting Memory in Those Over 90

A recent study reveals that higher education remains a significant factor in sustaining cognitive function among individuals over 90 years old. In contrast, midlife cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, sedentary lifestyle, or increased body mass index do not show a link to memory performance at this advanced age. Conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki, the study highlights the importance of lifelong learning in maintaining brain health.

This research builds upon earlier findings that associated cardiovascular risks with increased chances of dementia. It involved a long-term twin study initiated in 1975, which meticulously monitored participants’ health over nearly five decades. The study's unique approach allowed for assessing how risk and protective factors measured decades earlier influence cognitive abilities in nonagenarians.

A key finding was the clear connection between educational levels and memory performance. Participants with at least 12 years of schooling scored higher on cognitive tests than those with fewer than seven years. Even those with 7–11 years of education outperformed the least-educated group, suggesting that education may bolster the brain’s capacity to compensate for aging effects. Lead author Anni Varjonen explained that this protective benefit could be due to enhanced neural resilience fostered by education.

Interestingly, the study found no association between cardiovascular risk factors measured in midlife and memory function in these very elderly individuals. This might be because those who reach 90 years of age often differ in lifestyle or overall health from the general population, potentially making them less susceptible to such risk factors. Nonetheless, the researchers emphasize that larger, longitudinal studies are needed to further understand these findings.

Memory assessments were conducted via telephone interviews with 96 participants within the framework of the NONAGINTA project. The researchers appreciated the practicality and success of this approach in studying this age group. Overall, the study underscores the enduring influence of education on cognitive health well into old age and suggests that lifelong learning can be a valuable strategy for brain aging.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-link-persists-outshines-heart-health.html