Crosswords could delay onset of dementia but speed up eventual decline, study claims
Published 2 September 2010
Mentally stimulating activities such as doing crosswords and reading books could slow the decline of thinking skills resulting in dementia developing later but progressing faster.
This is according to a new study on Neurology online today Wednesday 1 September 2010. The research by Rush University Medical Centre in Chicago evaluated the mental activities of 1,157 people aged 65 or older without dementia over just under 12 years. Using a five point scale it found the rate of cognitive decline in people without cognitive impairment reduced by 52 per cent for each point on the cognitive scale. For people with Alzheimer's disease, the rate of decline increased by 42 per cent per point.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
Dr Susanne Sorensen'The jury is still out on whether poring over a crossword or enjoying a good book could keep your brain ticking over for longer. This robust study adds considerable weight to the argument that, at least in later life, it could and it may even delay the symptoms of dementia.
However although the symptoms are delayed, there is no evidence changes in the brain associated with dementia have been reduced. That the brain is allowed to deteriorate to a larger degree before symptoms like memory loss become apparent could explain why the condition seems to progress more quickly after diagnosis. More research is now needed to establish why this happens and what role mental stimulation may have in keeping people functioning for longer.'
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Research reference: 'Cognitive activity and the cognitive morbidity of Alzheimer disease' by RS Wilson et al. Neurology online, 1 September 2010.
