Older adults often experience cognitive decline as part of the aging process, and about 10% of those with mild cognitive impairment progress to Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia annually. While certain activities like jigsaw puzzles have been suggested to slow cognitive aging, the extent of their benefits remains uncertain.
However, a new Texas A&M University School of Public Health study reveals promising results. According to the research, older adults with mild cognitive impairment who frequently engage in mentally stimulating activities like word games, reading, and hobbies exhibit better memory, attention, and processing speed than those who do not.
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“Currently, nearly six million people in the U.S. live with dementia, and this figure could rise to 14 million by 2060, with minority groups disproportionately affected,” explained Dr. Junhyoung “Paul” Kim, associate professor of health behavior at Texas A&M. “Our goal was to address gaps in understanding how cognitive decline can be mitigated.”
The study, published in the Journal of Cognitive Enhancement, used data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), analyzing 5,932 individuals aged 50 and older with mild cognitive impairment from 2012 to 2020. Participants were surveyed about how often they engaged in activities like reading and game-playing, and their responses were categorized into low, mid, and high levels of participation. The research team then examined the relationship between these activities and cognitive function over time.
Results showed that those in the high participation group consistently had higher memory, working memory, attention, and processing speed than those in the mid- and low-level groups. The mid-level group also outperformed the low-level group in working memory and attention.
Dr. Kim noted that while overall cognitive function did decline with time, individuals who frequently engaged in mentally stimulating activities maintained better cognitive health than those who did not. This suggests that even older adults with mild cognitive impairment could benefit from regular engagement in such activities.
The study’s findings highlight the potential for healthcare providers to recommend games, reading, or other stimulating activities to their patients at least three to four times per week. Additionally, the researchers emphasized the need to address barriers like caregiver support and financial constraints to ensure more seniors can access these benefits.
Promoting consistent cognitive engagement can slow the progression of cognitive decline, offering a better quality of life for older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
