
cognitive reserve
Cognitive Reserve refers to the brain's ability to adapt to damage or aging by using existing cognitive resources, such as intelligence, education, and life experiences. Think of it as a safety net for your brain; those with higher cognitive reserve can maintain mental function longer despite challenges like disease or injury. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, lifelong learning, and social interaction can help build cognitive reserve, offering a form of resilience against cognitive decline. In essence, it's about how well your brain can cope with difficulties based on your accumulated knowledge and experiences.