Playing board games, cognitive decline and dementia: a French population-based cohort study

This French cohort study explored the relationship between board game playing and dementia risk over 20 years in 3,675 participants. Board game players had a 15% lower risk of developing dementia and experienced slower cognitive decline and reduced depression compared to non-players. The benefits were attributed to enhanced cognitive reserve and mental engagement. However, the reduced dementia risk was less clear after adjusting for baseline cognitive performance and depression, highlighting potential confounding factors.

Regularly engage in board games like chess or card games to stimulate mental engagement and reduce depression risk, potentially slowing cognitive decline. These benefits complement broader health strategies for aging, but causation is uncertain. Incorporate diverse, stimulating activities to support brain health.