Neuropsychologist Yulia Denisova-Melnikova shared insights on the benefits of handwriting practice for the brain via her Telegram channel. The expert suggests this method of articulating thoughts keeps the brain healthy and acts as a form of dementia prevention.
Engaging in handwriting places a singular demand on the brain because this writing technique activates numerous cerebral regions and functions. Specifically, brain areas responsible for memory become highly engaged: manual writing necessitates recalling letter shapes, along with rules of spelling and syntax. Fine motor skills are honed as precise movements of the hands and fingers are required.
Furthermore, interhemispheric collaboration is stimulated, which facilitates the coordination between logic and spatial awareness, Denisova-Melnikova clarifies. Abandoning handwriting can adversely affect mental acuity and increase the probability of developing dementia.
As manual writing skills diminish, neural connections gradually weaken, most notably those underpinning complex cognitive operations. This results in a loss of flexibility in thinking, which is one indicator of cognitive decline. To maintain mental clarity, the specialist advises writing by hand more frequently, regardless of age.
Denisova-Melnikova cautions that irreversible brain alterations can commence 20 to 30 years prior to the appearance of noticeable symptoms. Cultivating a consistent habit of writing by hand serves to reinforce neural pathways and maintain brain vitality.
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