Brain-Speed Training May Lower Dementia Risk for Decades

Written by: Stephanie Beebe
Updated: 02/25/2026
Published: 02/25/2026

An NPR report highlights research suggesting that a specific type of “brain training” focused on processing speed may reduce the likelihood of being diagnosed with dementia years later. The study tracked 2,802 older adults who took part in a federally funded cognitive-training trial that began in 1998. Participants who completed about 8–10 one-hour sessions of speed-based training (plus at least one booster session) were about 25% less likely to be diagnosed with dementia over the following two decades.

Unlike memory or reasoning exercises, the speed-training tasks emphasize quickly identifying visual information and responding under time pressure. Researchers think this may strengthen implicit learning—the brain’s ability to build automatic skills that can remain durable over time. Experts note that brain training isn’t a guaranteed prevention tool, but the findings add evidence that targeted cognitive exercises may be a helpful part of a broader brain-health strategy.

Source: This form of mental exercise may cut dementia risk for decades (NPR)