The unexpected link between how you live and how you age

There's some remarkable news from the world of brain health research, and it might just change how you think about aging. Scientists at UC Davis have discovered that people with a stronger sense of purpose were about 28% less likely to develop cognitive impairment—including dementia—compared to those who reported lower purpose in daily life.

The best part? "Purpose in life is free, safe and accessible," as the researchers noted.

While new dementia medications can cost tens of thousands of dollars annually and come with side effects, finding meaning in your days costs nothing and carries lasting benefits.

Your brain on purpose

This large-scale study followed more than 13,000 Americans aged 45 and older for up to 15 years, making it one of the most comprehensive analyses of purpose and brain health to date.

The protective effect was seen across all racial and ethnic groups and remained even among people with genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.

Purposeful living has also been linked to higher participation in preventive health services and fewer hospital stays.

Older adults with strong purpose are more likely to maintain healthy routines, stay active, and take better care of their overall well-being.

Also read: Want to live longer and feel younger? A 96-year-old shares her secrets to a happier, healthier life

Finding your north star

How do you rediscover a sense of purpose after years focused on career or family? It begins with reflection and small, intentional steps.

Step one: Reconnect with your authentic self.

Think about what drew your interest long before daily responsibilities filled your time—perhaps photography, music, gardening, or community involvement.

These early passions often hold clues to what continues to bring joy and meaning.

Then, look at what activities make you feel most engaged now. Whether it’s helping others, learning something new, or spending time in nature, there’s no wrong answer—only what fits you best.

Finally, try completing this sentence: “In order to experience more _____, I’d like to spend time _____, focusing on _____.” This can serve as a simple purpose statement.

Step two: Turn purpose into action.

Research identifies three pathways that tend to bring fulfillment to older adults—lifelong learning, volunteering, and encore careers.

Also read: Discover how I found a renewed purpose at 60 by becoming a dementia “Hummingbird”—and how you can too!

Learning and growing: Your brain’s best friend

Lifelong learning stimulates the brain and supports cognitive health. Programs like OasisEverywhere.org and Coursera offer accessible courses for older learners, while The Great Courses and Wondrium provide video lectures on a wide range of topics.

Local senior centers often host affordable or free educational classes that combine learning with social connection.

Also read:How finding your “why” could help protect your mind as you age

Giving back: The volunteer advantage

Volunteering brings measurable health benefits. Nearly all older volunteers report feeling happier, less stressed, and more connected to their communities.

For those seeking travel and service opportunities, GVI USA offers international volunteer programs tailored for older adults.

Closer to home, AmeriCorps Seniors welcomes volunteers aged 55 and older who want to serve their communities and stay engaged.

Also read: How adopting a senior pet could change your life in unexpected ways

Encore careers: A meaningful second act

Many Americans are exploring “encore careers” that combine purpose with part-time income. Some turn hobbies into small businesses, while others find fulfillment through flexible jobs in supportive environments.

The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) offers training and work experience for adults over 55, helping participants gain skills through community service roles. Resources like Encore.org and AARP.org/work also provide practical career transition tools.

Also read: Getting ready for retirement: Tips to handle this major life shift

The hidden benefit: Connection and community

Purposeful activities often create social opportunities without forcing them. Whether it’s a book club, a volunteer project, or a small business, these activities naturally foster meaningful connections.

Friendships tend to form through shared experiences, and engaging regularly with others builds the kind of social network that supports emotional and cognitive health.

Your purpose journey starts today

Purpose doesn’t require a major life overhaul—it simply involves aligning your time and energy with what matters most to you.

In the UC Davis study, having higher purpose delayed the onset of cognitive decline by roughly 1.4 months over an eight-year period—a modest but meaningful difference that adds up over time.

Researchers also found that purpose is linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and greater life satisfaction, making it one of the simplest and most accessible tools for healthy aging.

Read next:

• Side hustles over 60: Flexible ways to earn extra income and joy
• Inside NYC’s anti-loneliness club: Where seniors find connection and purpose—one story at a time
• 9 simple habits that can help you feel younger, stronger, and more energized

Key Takeaways

• UC Davis researchers found that people with a stronger sense of purpose were about 28% less likely to develop cognitive impairment, including dementia, over a 15-year study period.
• Purposeful living was linked not only to better brain health but also to healthier habits, higher use of preventive care, and fewer hospital visits.
• Experts suggest older adults can strengthen their sense of purpose through lifelong learning, volunteering, or encore careers that combine meaning and connection.
• Having a clear sense of purpose is an accessible, no-cost way to support mental sharpness, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being as we age.

What’s one small step you could take this week to deepen your sense of purpose? Share your ideas in the comments below—your story might inspire someone else to begin their own journey.