Fact 11: The Protective Role of Education in Dementia Prevention Amid Hypertension
At first glance, it might seem strange to link education to a discussion on dementia and hypertension. However, research suggests that higher levels of education might offer some protection against dementia, even in individuals with high blood pressure.
Studies show that individuals with higher education levels often have a lower risk of developing dementia. This phenomenon, known as cognitive reserve, suggests that education and other cognitively stimulating activities can help the brain build resilience against damage, including damage related to hypertension.
However, this doesn’t mean that education is a surefire safeguard against dementia or that individuals with less education are inevitably destined to develop dementia. Instead, this connection emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and cognitive stimulation in promoting brain health. (11)
