A recent 20-year-long study has revealed that engaging in a specific brain training game can significantly reduce the risk of dementia among older individuals. The research indicated that participants who dedicated at least 23 hours to playing this particular game experienced a 25% reduction in their risk of developing the disease. The study included nearly 3,000 participants aged 65 and older and closely monitored their engagement in cognitive exercises over two decades.

The game in question is a computer-based cognitive speed game that was highlighted as having the most substantial impact on lowering dementia risk. The researchers conducted the study as part of the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) study, which began in 1998. Participants received specific recommendations on exercises to undertake, and their cognitive health was monitored, showcasing a comprehensive approach to understanding how brain training can contribute positively to cognitive longevity.

The published findings in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research and Clinical Interventions underscore the importance of brain training interventions in combating dementia. As the prevalence of dementia continues to rise globally, these insights present a promising avenue for preventative strategies, encouraging older adults to engage in brain-stimulating activities as a potential method for safeguarding their cognitive health.