Crosswords, playing cards and computers may cut dementia risk in the over 70s

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2023-07-15 01:00

Australia; VIC

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A study of 10,000 older Aussies has found that taking classes, using a computer, writing letters or journals, and doing active mental activities such as playing games, cards, and doing crosswords or puzzles more frequently could all help reduce your risk of dementia. The study of Aussies in their 70s or older also found that artistic activities and more passive mental activities such as reading or watching TV were also linked to a lower dementia risk, albeit to a lesser extent. Interestingly, doing more social activities and having bigger social networks were not linked to dementia risk. The authors say this suggests that certain types of cognitively stimulating leisure activities, including adult literacy and active mental activities, may help prevent dementia in older age.