People who use their brains more have less brain shrinkage. This is a postulate of a study conducted by Australian researchers. The study was conducted by Michael Valenzuela at the University of NSW. The study makes a link between lifestyle and dementia. The result is drawn by the analysis of brain scans of various categories of people.

The study was conducted on the brains of 60-year-old persons over three years and their mental condition was tested by putting questions. It was found out that people with more mental activity in their life had a larger hippocampus. Hippocampus is an important memory centre in the brain.

People with less complex mental activity in their life are more prone to the shrinkage in a key part of the brain in their old age. Mental exercises such as puzzles and new languages can make brain healthy and active even in old age. It was also established by the scientists in the past that complex mental activity prevents dementia.

It is suggested in report to engage in cognitive, social and physical activities in late life such as dancing, tai chi, sailing, traveling and learning a new language to make the brain fit till the end of life.