Dementia risk may be reduced by brain training, study says

A Johns Hopkins analysis of roughly 3,000 adults over 65 reported that speed-focused brain-training exercises were associated with about a 25% lower dementia risk and benefits that may last up to 20 years. Some neuroscientists cautioned that evidence is still limited.

Researchers report links between regular brain-training games and lower dementia risk in older adults. The United States has seen rising numbers of dementia and Alzheimer's, with reports citing about 7 million people living with Alzheimer's. The study discussed used the BrainHQ platform to test memory, reasoning and speed training and followed participants for many years. The article highlights an 80-year-old participant who described improved memory after regular speed-training exercises. Key facts: - The article references a long-term Johns Hopkins study involving about 3,000 adults aged 65 and older. - Participants used memory, reasoning and speed training on the BrainHQ platform, with speed training showing the strongest association with reduced risk. - The article reports an association of roughly a 25% lower dementia risk linked to the game Double Down and suggests benefits may last up to 20 years. - Researchers performed booster sessions in follow-up and noted that starting training earlier (in the 40s or 50s) could yield benefits sooner, according to the report. - The piece also notes that some neuroscientists urge caution because evidence that brain games prevent dementia remains limited, and experts said brain training does not replace exercise or social engagement. Summary: The findings point to speed-based brain training as a possible modest, non-drug approach associated with lower dementia risk and longer-term cognitive benefits for some participants. Undetermined at this time.