Challenge the brain to help prevent Alzheimer’s, neurologist says

Learning an instrument, studying a language and solving puzzles can help older people challenge their cognitive abilities, neurologist Ali Akyol said during World Alzheimer’s Month.

Akyol said activities such as sudoku, memorizing riddles and learning new skills can provide significant benefits even in advanced age. He also urged families to avoid frequently changing a patient’s living environment, reduce fall risks at home and seek persuasive solutions rather than arguing in difficult situations.

Early signs can be easy to miss because forgetfulness is often attributed to age and the disease progresses slowly. People with strong cognitive reserves may conceal their difficulties for some time. Relatives may eventually notice trouble recalling words during conversations, forgetting where belongings were placed, using fewer words and asking the same questions repeatedly.

Akyol said Alzheimer’s prevalence rises sharply with age. The annual rate averages about three cases per 100,000 people across all countries, compared with 300 per 100,000 among people aged 60 to 69, 3,200 among those aged 70 to 79, and more than 10,000 after age 80.

He also listed changes that should not be dismissed, including declining personal hygiene, nutrition and money-management skills, reduced language and tool-use abilities, changes in personality and communication, fears, panic and suspiciousness. He recommended maintaining regular nutrition and sleep, controlling hypertension and diabetes, and avoiding isolation.

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Even in advanced age, learning to play an instrument, doing sudoku, learning a language and memorizing riddles can provide great benefits through activities that challenge cognitive capacity.