Knitting and crochet offer low-stakes mental and social benefits, neuroscientist says

Knitting and crochet combine repetition with problem-solving, which neuroscientist Sarah McKay says may support attention, mood and stress reduction. She cautions that evidence is insufficient to show the crafts prevent dementia, while community groups highlight their value for social connection and purpose.

Knitting and crochet can provide a combination of repetition, concentration and manageable challenge that may benefit attention and mood, according to neuroscientist Sarah McKay, as reported by ABC News Australia. She described the activities as “deceptively good for the brain”, while stressing that they should be considered alongside established elements of a broader brain-health routine.

McKay said complex patterns require people to remember their progress, solve problems and make decisions. She said this can train people to focus on one task for an extended period, while the relatively low stakes of craftwork make it a useful form of cognitive challenge.

The activities may also support mood and stress reduction, McKay said. Learning and improving a skill can provide a simple sense of mastery, while concentrating on the task may offer relief from other worries. Will Seager, who taught himself to knit nine years ago and now knits daily, told ABC News Australia that difficult patterns are both calming and intellectually stimulating. He said knitting allows him to focus entirely on the activity when he feels anxious.

For some people, the benefits are social as well as individual. The Glenorchy Library Knitting Group in Hobart’s northern suburbs meets weekly, with members knitting and crocheting items for local charities. Group founder Carolee Marino said the meetings were about looking after one another, while members told ABC News Australia that the group provided companionship, a chance to share skills and a way to contribute to people in need.

McKay cautioned that there is not enough evidence to conclude that knitting and crochet prevent dementia. She said much of the research is observational or based on self-reported information rather than randomised clinical trials focused specifically on dementia risk. However, she said craft activities could fit alongside exercise, diet, sleep, stress reduction and cardiovascular and metabolic health measures, while also supporting social connection and a sense of purpose.