Keeping our minds and bodies engaged is one of the most effective strategies for promoting well-being as we age. A holistic view of aging considers cognitive, physical, emotional and existential dimensions — each playing a role in how we age and thrive.

A study published in The Journals of Gerontology found that adults over the age of 50 who engaged in learning three new skills — such as a language, photography or drawing — demonstrated marked improvements in cognitive function. This aligns with longstanding gerontological principles emphasizing that mental stimulation across the lifespan enhances brain health and adaptability.

The concept of “use it or lose it” is more than a common adage. The National Library of Medicine highlights that adult neurogenesis — the formation of new neurons

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