Chess, Puzzles Delay Alzheimer's by Years

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities throughout life may significantly delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. A comprehensive study, published in Neurology, followed nearly 2,000 adults and analyzed their lifelong cognitive activities. Participants in the top 10 percent for cognitive enrichment developed Alzheimer's about six years later than those in the bottom 10 percent.

This research suggests that activities such as reading, learning languages, visiting museums, and playing games like chess can build cognitive reserve. This reserve allows the brain to better compensate for age-related changes or damage, such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Even with similar levels of brain pathology, individuals with more enriched lives showed superior cognitive function.

The study indicates that these beneficial effects can stem from activities undertaken as early as childhood. While not proving direct causation, the findings highlight a strong relationship between lifelong mental engagement and improved late-life cognitive performance. These accessible behaviors offer a hopeful approach to maintaining brain health, regardless of socioeconomic background.