Cognitive Speed Training Delays Dementia Diagnosis - Proven at 85

I Get Younger Every Year, and So Can You - Don't Believe Me? Just Ask Your Brain

I'm 85 years young, still spinning clay on my pottery wheel, still teaching movement classes to folks half my age. They think I've lost it; they're wrong. The playground doesn't care how old you are. It's where the magic happens, and that magic is called neuroplasticity - your brain's superpower.

I recall when I first heard about cognitive speed training. At the time, I was in my 60s, still teaching at UCF, and feeling like I'd lost a step or two (but that's another story). A colleague mentioned some research on how speed training could delay dementia diagnosis. Delay it? That got my attention.

As an award-winning potter, movement educator, and science enthusiast, I had to know more. What if this was the key to staying sharp, even in our golden years? So, let's dive into what the researchers found out about cognitive speed training.

The Science Says: Cognitive Speed Training May Delay Dementia Diagnosis

Recent studies have been looking at how certain activities can delay the diagnosis of dementia. And here's the exciting part: cognitive speed training might just be one of those activities. When we talk about cognitive decline, most people think it's inevitable - a natural part of aging. But what if I told you that our brains are capable of rewiring themselves? That's right; neuroplasticity is real.

In this research, participants engaged in various speed training programs over the course of several weeks. The goal was to see whether these activities could have an impact on cognitive decline. And here's the fascinating part: it seems they did just that. By improving reaction time and processing speed, participants might be delaying dementia diagnosis by a few years at least.

But Here's the Thing - It's Not Just About Speed

Now, I know what you're thinking: "Stephen, this all sounds great, but how do I get started?" Well, let me tell you - it starts with movement. Improving coordination and balance isn't just about preventing falls (although that's important too); it's about firing up your brain. When we engage in physical activities like tai chi or dance classes, we're not just exercising our bodies; we're also stimulating our brains.

In fact, research has shown that incorporating cognitive training into exercise programs can have a synergistic effect - meaning the results are greater than the sum of its parts. So, what does this look like in practice? Let's get moving!

Practical Steps: Challenge Your Brain (and Body) Today

You don't need to be a science whiz or a fitness enthusiast to get started. Here's your challenge:

1. **Get Moving**: Sign up for that dance class or tai chi workshop you've been eyeing.

2. **Challenge Both Sides of Your Brain - Every Single Day**: Engage in activities that stimulate both the left and right hemispheres, like learning a new language or painting (yes, pottery counts too!).

3. **Practice Cognitive Speed Training**: Try games or apps designed to improve reaction time and processing speed.

4. **Make Lifestyle Changes**: Eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep - these habits will help your brain (and body) thrive.

Closing: The Playground Awaits

As I always say, "The playground doesn't care how old you are." It's where we come to play, learn, and grow. So don't wait until tomorrow; start today. Challenge both sides of your brain - every single day. And remember, I get younger every year (just ask my students). You can too.

Ready to join the playground? Head over to Never Leave The Playground (neverleavetheplayground.com) for resources, stories, and inspiration on how to stay sharp, active, and engaged throughout your life. Let's play!