A recent study suggests that fostering curiosity may play a significant role in maintaining brain health as individuals age. Conducted by researchers at UCLA, the study highlights the potential benefits of curiosity in preventing cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Curiosity is characterized as a desire to learn and explore new information or environments. The authors define it in two ways: as a state, which refers to temporary feelings of curiosity, and as a trait, which reflects a person's enduring inclination to seek knowledge. The research indicates that curiosity can drive engagement in activities such as hobbies, education, and travel, all of which contribute to cognitive stimulation.
The study involved 1,218 participants ranging from ages 20 to 84, who completed an online questionnaire assessing their curiosity levels. The findings suggest that older adults are motivated to pursue formal learning opportunities, such as classes or new hobbies, driven by their curiosity. This engagement is linked to maintaining cognitive abilities and overall well-being.
Senior author Alan Castel noted that many older adults return to education or take up new interests, showing that sustained curiosity can positively influence cognitive sharpness. The research indicates that while younger adults may be more curious about new topics, older individuals often seek to expand their existing knowledge, focusing on areas of personal relevance.
The researchers emphasize the importance of recognizing specific domains of curiosity that appeal to older adults, rather than solely measuring trait curiosity. Activities aligned with personal interests, such as gardening, can facilitate learning and social connections, thereby enhancing cognitive health in later life. The study was published in the journal PLoS One in May 2025.