A new study has found that combining exercise, healthy eating, social engagement, and brain games can improve cognitive capabilities in older adults at risk of cognitive decline or dementia. The clinical trial, which involved 2,111 adults aged 60 to 79, showed significant cognitive improvements in both the structured and self-guided lifestyle intervention groups.
Researchers recruited underrepresented groups for the study, aiming to address disparities in dementia prevention trials. Participants engaged with a web-based cognitive training program and received educational materials on healthy eating and exercise. Those in the structured group also met regularly with facilitators and fellow participants, receiving health coaching and phone calls to assess diet and cardiometabolic health.
While both groups showed cognitive improvements, those in the structured group performed better on executive function tasks. The study suggests that lifestyle interventions, even when based solely on educational information, can be beneficial for brain health.
The researchers are now analyzing biomarkers and neuroimaging data from the participants to see how these interventions impact their cognitive health in the longer run. They plan to roll out the structured lifestyle interventions into the community as soon as possible.
Key Takeaways:
* Combine exercise, healthy eating, social engagement, and brain games for improved cognitive capabilities.
* Lifestyle interventions can be beneficial even when based solely on educational information.
* Addressing modifiable risk factors through diet, physical activity, and social engagement may prevent up to 45% of dementia cases.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2025/07/31/brain-health-dementia-prevention-strategies-study