Crossword Puzzles Improve Brain Function
Consistent solving of crossword puzzles has been proven through research to reduce the deterioration of memory by 2.54 years for individuals who are in the pre-symptomatic stages of dementia.
Due to the rising increase of brain-related illnesses and uncertainty surrounding their treatment, combined with a lack of research and medication towards improvement, the study of cognition has been a rising interest.
Crossword puzzles consist of a carefully planned out grid filled with squares with corresponding numbers. Each number has a hint or riddle which determines the letter that will be inputted.
Recently, multiple studies have been conducted in order to find a positive correlation between the solving of crossword puzzles and memory.
The Bronx Aging Study is a study that observes the connection between leisure time activities, in this case, crossword puzzles, and the risk of developing dementia over lengthy time periods. A particular study conducted byAlbert Einstein College of Medicine professor, Joe Verghese, concluded that the engagement of leisure time activities does have an effect on slowing the progression of dementia, due to their effects on cognitive reserve.
Cognitive reserve refers to the dexterity and flexibility of one’s brain in combating changes regarding the brain. More specifically, it ties into the belief that individuals are capable of developing mental abilities which protect them from age-related brain illnesses.
With a consistent integration of crossword puzzles into daily life improving cognitive reserve, there have also been studies that have proved that it delays the shrinkage of the brain.
Brain shrinkage, which is another side effect associated with dementia and other mild cognitive impairment syndromes, occurs when there are significant losses of neurons and synapses that causes the mass of the brain to decrease, and therefore also decreases the brain’s memory center.
“Hitting the trifecta of cognitive improvement, improvement in daily functioning and slowing brain shrinkage is like a holy grail in the field,” stated Dr. Murali Doraiswamy, professor at Duke University School of Medicine.
As the brain is the control center of the body, it is important to preserve its function. Any research that is conducted or discovery made in the realm of cognition are essential steps towards preserving brain function.
A number of other studies have been conducted to examine whether education or other brain-related games have the same impact. However, the correlations were weak in comparison to crossword puzzles.
By stimulating multiple regions of the brain to work together to make different connections in attempts to solve crossword puzzles, the neural pathways of the brain are simultaneously being strengthened. The hippocampus and cortex are also reinforced in this way, therefore improving memory.
“It is the process of learning new information that is most important for the brain.” said Dr. Emer MacSweeney, a London neuroradiologist.
Although a progressing study, these new findings help pave the way to finding new methods to preserve memory and brain function. An activity as simple as crossword puzzles can easily be implemented into the daily lives of individuals, not only providing a fun way to pick at the brain, but also as a method of preventive medicine.