In a robust new study published in JAMA Network Open, Monash University researchers have found that certain activities such as computer use, education classes, and crosswords may be more effective at staving off dementia in older adults compared to other activities like crafting and socializing.
The study used data from over 10,000 Australians aged 70 and older, part of the ASPREE and ALSOP projects.
According to the results, participants who frequently engaged in tasks demanding mental acuity were 9-11% less likely to develop dementia.
In contrast, creative hobbies like knitting and painting reduced the risk by 7%.
Interestingly, the study found that having a large social network and going out for recreational activities like eating out or going to the movies had no significant impact on reducing dementia risk.
Mind Over Leisure
Senior author Associate Professor Joanne Ryan pointed out that active mental engagement seemed to play a crucial role in lowering dementia risk.
“I think what our results tell us is that active manipulation of previously stored knowledge may play a greater role in dementia risk reduction than more passive recreational activities,” Ryan said.
While the study makes a compelling argument for the effectiveness of activities that stimulate the brain, Associate Professor Ryan cautioned against disregarding the importance of social connection for cognitive health and overall mental well-being.
This study’s findings could have widespread applications, including helping older individuals and healthcare professionals devise more targeted approaches to reducing dementia risk.
Given that 55 million people globally lived with dementia in 2022, with 10 million new cases every year, strategies to delay or prevent dementia are a pressing global priority.
Takeaways
If the goal is to lower dementia risk, activities that actively engage the brain, like computer use, education, and crosswords, are more effective than passive or social activities.
The study does not entirely rule out the benefits of social interaction or other leisure activities that could have other positive effects on mental well-being.
As the global population ages, strategies for preventing cognitive decline become increasingly crucial. While not a ‘magic pill,’ this research suggests a promising approach in the form of cognitive engagement.
Thus, next time you reach for the knitting needles, you might also want to pick up a crossword or a chessboard.
If you care about dementia, please read studies about low choline intake linked to higher dementia risk, and how eating nuts can affect your cognitive ability.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies that blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline, and results showing higher magnesium intake could help benefit brain health.
The study was published in JAMA Network Open.
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