Age is just a number

You’re never too old to learn – and doing so might just improve your health

- Kate Jones

Are you aware of the health benefits of doing something you’ve never done previously? A 2019 article published by the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University revealed that new neural activity patterns emerge with long-term learning, and established a causal link between these patterns and new behavioral abilities.

Earlier studies have also found that novel experiences deliver a rush of the ‘happy hormone’ dopamine, while cultivating a growth mindset, instead of a fixed one, reportedly fosters resilience and perseverance. The NHS has even categorized learning new skills as one of five steps for improving mental health and wellbeing on its website, noting: “Research shows that learning new skills can improve your mental wellbeing by boosting self-confidence and raising self-esteem, helping you to build a sense of purpose [and] helping you to connect with others.”