Brain-training Game 'significantly Reduces Dementia Risk'

A recent study has been hailed as a "breakthrough" in dementia prevention, after finding that a brain-training exercise can lower the risk of the condition by more than a quarter

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Nov, 2017 ) :A recent study has been hailed as a "breakthrough" in dementia prevention, after finding that a brain-training exercise can lower the risk of the condition by more than a quarter.

The study which followed more than 2,800 older adults for a decade reveals how the brain-training intervention known as "speed-of-processing training" reduced participants' risk of dementia by 29 percent, Health news reported.

Dementia is an umbrella term for a decline in cognitive functions such as learning, memory, and reasoning that impairs a person's ability to perform day-to-day tasks. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, which accounts for around 60'80 percent of all cases.

It is estimated that dementia affects around 47 million people worldwide. By 2030, this number is projected to soar to 75 million. A wealth of research has indicated that people may protect themselves against cognitive decline and dementia through brain training.

Scientists now know that the brain can adapt to change at any age, and that such adjustments can be either beneficial or harmful. This process is known as "neuroplasticity." Brain training aims to strengthen neural connections in a way that maintains or increases cognitive functioning.