Brain exercises may delay memory loss

Leisure activities that exercise the brain may delay the rapid memory decline that occurs with the development of dementia in late life. Reading, writing, doing crossword puzzles, playing board or card games, having group discussions, and playing music might help maintain brain vitality and delay memory loss.

In a study supported by the National Institue on Aging, partcipants reported daily participation levels in six activities using a point system over the course of several years. The average level of participation for participants who developed dementia was one activity per day. The onset of rapid memory loss was delayed by 0.18 years for engagement in each additional activity.

The results of the study, published in "Neurology", the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, also factored in the education level of participants. According to Charles B. Hall, PhD, "The effect of these activities in late life appears to be independent of education."

News source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090803172940.htm