How Games and Puzzles Reduce Dementia Risk

At the outset of the trial, all patients lived in the community (not in nursing homes) and showed no evidence of significant cognitive impairment or dementia. Participants in the first year answered questions regarding their contact with close friends and relatives, leisure activities, and visits to places like museums and restaurants.

Throughout the trial, the researchers examined the patients for dementia at regular intervals. They discovered that those who engaged in “adult literacy activities” such as using a computer, taking educational classes, writing letters, or journaling, as well as those who engaged in brain-exercising activities such as games, cards, chess, puzzles, or crossword puzzles, were 9% to 11% less likely to develop dementia than their peers.

In contrast, the frequency of social activities and the number of close friends and family members were not connected with dementia risk, according to the study. However, the study’s authors stated that this could be because there were too few lonely or isolated participants in the study for an effect to be noticed.

Why Are Some Activities More Beneficial to Brain Health Than Others?

According to Dale Bredesen, M.D., a neuroscience researcher and neurodegenerative disease expert, the quick answer is that it’s not apparent yet. “It’s likely to depend on what parts of the brain are stimulated and how—for example, it’s been discovered that processing speed-enhancing games, as well as some memory and rapid-decision games, appear to be beneficial.” Furthermore, whatever training is employed has the greatest influence on that same talent, which may not be beneficial for overall cognition, thus it’s best to choose similar training (for example, speed, memory, or language) for the goal of improvement.

According to Michael Cuccaro, Ph.D., co-director of the John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics at The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the benefit of certain hobbies is their capacity to tap into many regions of brain activity (memory, critical thinking, etc.). “Our brains are quick to figure out how to perform certain tasks to conserve resources.” Relatively constant activities will not bring long-term benefit.”

Cuccaro continues, “The amount of challenge in various tasks is important—especially when it deviates from normal activities.” “Additionally, when mental activities include social components, the effect is much greater.”

The researchers assessed a wide range of activities, and those that required active participation were most significantly linked to a lower prevalence of dementia, according to Cuccaro. “I would add that activities that require active engagement of mind and body in diverse settings with other people will have the greatest impact!”

How do Puzzles and Games Help to Minimize the Risk of Dementia?

According to Patrick Porter, Ph.D., neuroscience specialist and founder of BrainTap, puzzles and games, particularly those that demand critical thinking, problem-solving, and memory recall, have been linked to a lower risk of dementia. “These activities challenge the brain to find patterns, make connections, and think creatively.” They necessitate mental flexibility and urge the brain to adapt and rearrange neural networks, hence improving cognitive reserve.”

Regular participation in puzzles and games can help enhance focus, concentration, and memory, which are frequently impaired in dementia patients, according to Porter. “These activities provide a source of enjoyment and can help reduce stress, which is yet another important factor in maintaining brain health.”

According to Cuccaro, our brains constantly form new connections as we grow, and activities that both challenge and engage us will result in ongoing brain development and novel approaches to problems. “For many older adults, keeping their brains fit is a result of different challenges, and the more we use our brains for new and exciting activities, the more they remain agile and receptive.”

According to Cuccaro, our brains constantly form new connections as we grow, and activities that both challenge and engage us will result in ongoing brain development and novel approaches to problems. “For many older adults, keeping their brains fit is a result of different challenges, and the more we use our brains for new and exciting activities, the more they remain agile and receptive.”

What Effect Does Social Involvement Have on Dementia Risk?

A previous study has demonstrated that social engagement, or the absence of social isolation, is essential for maintaining brain health in old age. However, the findings of this study did not indicate that social activities influenced dementia risk.

Nonetheless, there is substantial evidence that social involvement is important in decreasing dementia, according to Cuccaro. “As the authors pointed out, the lack of a strong association between social engagement and dementia was most likely due to the study participants’ high level of social engagement at the start.” If anything, I believe this study demonstrates the value of including games, riddles, and challenges in social settings.”

According to Cuccaro, there has long been a widespread perception that cognitive decline and aging are unavoidable. “It is critical for individuals to understand that cognitive and mental abilities can be modified by embracing opportunities to learn new things and take on new challenges.”

According to Porter, engaging in puzzles, games, and mentally taxing tasks in a social setting has been demonstrated to have powerful protective effects on brain health. “These findings highlight the importance of leading an active and intellectually stimulating lifestyle, cultivating social connections, and constantly challenging our cognitive abilities.”

While engaging in mentally challenging activities and maintaining social relationships can be advantageous, Porter emphasizes the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to brain health. “This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep.” These lifestyle variables, when combined with mentally and socially challenging activities, can provide a complete approach to lowering dementia risk and encouraging optimal brain health as we age.

Reference:

1. Lifestyle Enrichment in Later Life and Its Association With Dementia Risk – (https:pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37450299/)

Source: Medindia