Cognitive training has long been a topic of controversy, with conflicting opinions on its effectiveness in preventing cognitive decline and dementia. However, a recent study has shed light on the potential benefits of cognitive “speed training” in reducing the risk of dementia diagnosis by 25%.
The study, conducted over a 20-year period and involving 2832 participants aged 65 and older, found that those who completed speed training with booster sessions had a significantly lower risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia compared to the control group. The speed training involved a computer-based task called Double Decision, which tests participants’ speed, attention, and peripheral vision by briefly displaying a car and a road sign within a scene before they disappear. Participants must then recall which car appeared and where the sign was located, with the task becoming more challenging as performance improves.
The researchers also included memory and reasoning training groups, but only the speed training group with booster sessions showed a significant decrease in dementia risk. The results have been met with cautious optimism from experts in the field, with some praising the rigorous analysis and long-term follow-up of the study.
The underlying mechanisms behind why speed training may be effective in reducing dementia risk are still unclear. One theory is that the implicit learning involved in speed training, which occurs without conscious awareness, may lead to long-lasting changes in the brain. The demanding nature of the training, requiring participants to pay close attention and adapt to increasing difficulty, could also contribute to its effectiveness.
Furthermore, speed training may help build brain reserve, a cognitive buffer against damage that could delay the onset of cognitive decline. Enhanced brain connectivity from the training could also improve attention and daily functioning in older adults, leading to increased social engagement and overall brain health.
While the results of the study are promising, experts emphasize the need for further research to confirm the findings and understand the underlying mechanisms of cognitive training. Nevertheless, the study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of specific cognitive exercises in promoting brain health and reducing the risk of dementia. Dr. Bobby Stojanoski, a researcher at Ontario Tech University, believes that future work should focus on the relationship between training and brain health. Specifically, he asks, “What is the optimal amount of training?” This question is crucial in understanding how different types and durations of training can impact cognitive function and potentially delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
According to Andrew Budson, a professor at Boston University, the key takeaway is not to engage in mindless speed training games, but rather to focus on activities that involve implicit learning. This type of learning, which occurs without conscious awareness, has been shown to have positive effects on brain health. Budson suggests that learning a new sport, vocation, or craft can lead to long-lasting changes in the brain, potentially delaying the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
In essence, the research conducted by Stojanoski and Budson highlights the importance of engaging in activities that challenge the brain and promote continuous learning. By finding the right balance of training and stimulation, individuals may be able to maintain cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline.
In conclusion, the ongoing research on the relationship between training and brain health is essential for understanding how we can optimize cognitive function and potentially prevent neurodegenerative diseases. By incorporating activities that promote implicit learning and continuous growth, individuals can support their brain health and overall well-being.
