Learning New and Unfamiliar Skills Can Improve Memory

It's no secret that if you want to improve your memory (or any brain function), you have to work at it. A new study, however, shows that specifically learning a new skill that's unfamiliar to you can have a marked improvement in memory.

The study examined three groups of people. One attempted to learn a new skill like quilting or photography. The second participated in social activities but otherwise learned nothing new, while the third listened to classical music or did word puzzles. The results showed the first group demonstrated improved memory function. The effects particularly emphasized a need to engage the mind later in life:


While everyone can benefit from learning new skills and simultaneously improving memory, the researchers emphasized that as a person gets older, trying new things is an essential part of ensuring a healthy mind.

Learning Challenging New Skills Like Photography Improves Memory | PsyBlog

Photo by Jean-Etienne Minh-Duy Poirrier.