Reading protects the brain for a lifetime: Cambridge scientists discover the benefits of reading books for brain and mental health

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A new study by researchers at the University of Cambridge has shown that in a number of scientific works, reading books is associated with better attention and memory, a lower incidence of mental illness, and a healthier lifestyle.

"Reading is a wonderful way to maintain brain health, develop important cognitive skills, and enhance our well-being," says Barbara Sahakian, a professor at the University of Cambridge and corresponding author of the review. "Given the growing body of evidence about its benefits, especially for children, we need to encourage reading from an early age. In fact, it is never too late to read, and reading can bring benefits throughout life, including in old age."

Despite the growing evidence of the benefits of reading for young people, the overall proportion of children and school students who read is declining across Europe.

The latest report from PISA 2025, which assesses the knowledge and skills of 15-year-old school students in reading, mathematics, and science, indicates a global decline in reading literacy levels. OECD researchers attributed this general decline to a decrease in reading for pleasure and an increase in digital distractions.

In the UK, a recently published report by the National Literacy Trust (NLT) showed that only 36 percent of children and adolescents aged 8–18 said they enjoy reading in their free time, whereas this figure was 58.6 percent in 2016.

"Given how beneficial reading for pleasure is in youth, we must do everything we can to engage children and young people in books," says study co-author Christelle Langley.

She added that it is important to find a topic that a child or teenager is genuinely interested in; this could be a TV show or a game, and it should be used as an "entry point."

Comics and graphic novels can also be a useful first step, as they are not as bulky and do not seem as tedious as traditional novels.

In a series of surveys, researchers identified a wide range of benefits for adults, including reduced stress levels, deeper relaxation, and a more tolerant attitude toward the perspectives of others.

The authors note that reading is particularly beneficial for the elderly. Brain-stimulating leisure is associated with slower cognitive decline and a reduced risk of dementia in this age group.

These benefits increase even further when people join book clubs or reading groups.

"Such clubs help people feel less lonely and closer to others, which has been proven to reduce the risk of dementia," Sahakian said. "Although such clubs can be fun and beneficial at any age, they are particularly suitable for older adults who may not always find it easy to move around. For example, it may be difficult for them to participate in sports activities or a cycling group, whereas a book club is an activity that many can enjoy."

At a time when the prevalence of mental illness is increasing worldwide, scientists are increasingly focusing on the lifestyle factors that may contribute to this rise and potential ways to influence it.

According to the study's authors, reading books falls into this category as "a protective factor that can be used throughout life and is affordable."

They note that the exact brain mechanisms responsible for these positive effects of reading are not yet fully understood and require further research.

Nevertheless, the review highlights reading-based programs as a practical tool to support brain health, cognitive development, and well-being.

"Policies that encourage children to engage in reading from an early age through schools, libraries, book clubs, and community-level initiatives can help mitigate some of the negative effects of poverty on brain development and educational pathways, providing long-term academic and developmental benefits," the authors write.