Introduction: Cognitive impairment is one of the most important problems among the elderly. Evidence suggests that mental activities can strengthen neurons and delay age-related cognitive decline. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of Quran memorization, reading, and recitation on cognitive functions in older adults.
Method: This narrative review, to examine the existing evidence on the effects of Quran memorization, reading, and recitation on cognitive functions in older adults, a targeted search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The search strategy employed a combination of standard MeSH terms, including "Cognition" and "Aged," along with free-text keywords such as "Quran memorization," "Quran recitation," and "Quran reading." Relevant studies published between 2010 and 2025 were selected and analyzed based on inclusion and exclusion criteria following screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts.
Results: The findings showed that most studies associated Quran memorization, reading, and recitation with better cognitive functions in older adults. Quran reading and recitation were mainly associated with overall cognitive functioning, whereas Quran memorization was more closely associated with memory, particularly episodic memory. However, some studies found no significant associations or differences.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that Quran memorization, reading, and recitation may be associated with better cognitive functions in older adults; however, the heterogeneity of the findings and the limited available evidence constrain causal conclusions. Therefore, well-designed intervention studies are needed to confirm these findings.
moradi Z, pourhadi S. Investigating the Effects of Quran Memorization, Reading (Qira’ah), and Recitation on Cognitive Functions in Older Adults: A Narrative Review. joge 2026; 11 (3) URL: http://joge.ir/article-1-821-en.html