Brain-Training Exercise Cuts Dementia Risk - NPR Study

I Get Younger Every Year

You know what's crazy? We spend our entire lives training our bodies to be stronger, faster, and more agile – but neglect to do the same with our brains. I'm not talking about memorizing phone numbers or solving math problems (although that's a good start). No, no. I'm talking about challenging your brain in the most deliciously playful way possible.

As an 85-year-old former professor, potter, and movement educator, I can tell you – it works. At least, it did for me. After a near-fatal motorcycle accident at age 62 (don't worry, I got back on my bike), I realized that to stay young, I needed to keep moving... and thinking.

My Story: Brain Training as Self-Discovery

Growing up in the UK, I was fascinated by human movement – how we learn, grow, and adapt. After a decade of researching and teaching physical education at the University of Central Florida (UCF), I turned my attention to the brain itself. Why? Because I wanted to understand what made me... me.

One day, while potting on my wheel (a lifelong passion), I noticed something remarkable. As I focused intently on the clay, lost in the meditative rhythm of shaping and molding, my mind seemed to clear, like a summer sky after a storm. It was as if my brain had suddenly expanded, allowing new ideas and perspectives to flood in.

I realized that this wasn't just about creating art; it was about challenging both sides of my brain – every single day. By engaging in creative activities that sparked cognitive speed training (more on that later), I found myself becoming more agile, adaptable, and resilient. The playground didn't care how old I was; it welcomed me with open arms.

The Science: Brain Training for Dementia Risk Reduction

A recent study published in 2026 (okay, I'll stop citing dates now) has shown that cognitive speed training can cut dementia risk for decades. Researchers found that those who completed eight to ten roughly hour-long sessions of brain training had significantly lower rates of Alzheimer's and dementia.

But here's the thing: this isn't just about memory games or apps. It's about cultivating a way of thinking, moving, and being that keeps your brain young – no matter what your calendar says.

In simpler terms: when you challenge both sides of your brain with playful activities like puzzles, creative pursuits, or even learning a new language (hello, playground!), you're building cognitive reserve. Think of it as having an emergency fund for your brain – one that helps protect against the inevitable wear and tear of aging.

Practical Steps: Get Moving, Get Thinking

So what can you do TODAY to challenge both sides of your brain? Don't worry; I won't ask you to become a master potter (although, come on, it's fun!). Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. **Puzzle Time**: Grab a crossword or Sudoku and give those neurons a workout.

2. **Learn Something New**: Take an online course, attend a workshop, or join a community that fascinates you – whether it's art, science, or cooking (I'm personally fascinated by the intersection of art and movement).

3. **Get Moving**: As I always say: Just keep moving! Engage in activities that get your heart rate up and challenge your coordination, like dance, martial arts, or simply playing with your grandkids.

4. **Practice Mindfulness**: Set aside time each day for meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply paying attention to the world around you.

The playground doesn't care how old you are. It welcomes all comers – no matter what your age, fitness level, or cognitive abilities may be. So come on down and join me! Let's challenge both sides of our brains together, every single day.

Never Leave The Playground

Ready to start your brain-training journey? Visit neverleavetheplayground.com for more resources, inspiration, and stories from the playground. Remember: I get younger every year – you can too!