The impact of employment on cognition and cognitive reserve: implications across diseases and aging

Abstract

Employment requires one to learn new skills, establish a routine, and engage socially, all of which can also provide purpose or meaning to one's life and provide income. All of these can directly or indirectly bolster cognitive reserve, which may protect cognitive health, especially as one ages. Unfortunately, if one is incapacitated due to illness, such as depression, HIV, or other diseases and chronic conditions, it may necessitate reduction/withdrawal from employment, which could limit employment-induced cognitive health benefits. This article examines these issues within the framework of neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve, thus providing implications for practice and research for nurses and health care professionals.