A study found that spending a few hours a week helping others was associated with slower cognitive decline over time.[1] Researchers have noted that benefits apply to both formal volunteering and informal acts, such as helping neighbors or relatives.[1] The effects added up year after year, so regular engagement produced incremental cognitive benefits.[1] The benefits didn't just come from the big time commitment; even modest, daily help has produced measurable improvements in mental well-being and slower brain aging.[1] Therefore, the study states that it does not take many hours per week to have a positive effect — just a few hours are enough.[1] Thus, the main finding is that regular small to moderate amounts of helping others is correlated with significantly slower cognitive decline.[1]