Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, which involves a gradual decline in memory, speech, and the ability to respond to the environment. With no known cure, its prevention and management remain important.

In 2019, India ranked fourth worldwide for dementia cases, including Alzheimer’s. By 2050, it will surpass Japan and the United States to become the second highest.

This brain disease causes memory loss and other cognitive functions. While age is a factor, poor lifestyle habits can also contribute to this type of dementia.

Several factors may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, including increasing age, being male, low socioeconomic status, sedentary lifestyle, frequent head injuries, family history of neurodegenerative diseases, alcohol consumption, long-term depression, loneliness, and lack of social connectedness.

Once Alzheimer’s disease occurs, it is challenging to stop its progression.

However, combining medication with cognitive rehabilitation can significantly increase patients’ quality of life.

Medications help manage symptoms, while cognitive activities such as memory exercises and brain stimulation support cognitive function and improve daily life.

“Participating in brain-stimulating activities like puzzles, chess and Sudoku keeps the brain active and helps prevent Alzheimer’s,” said Dr Amit Srivastava, Director, Neurosurgery, Aakash Healthcare Superspeciality Hospital, New Delhi.

“Walking slowly backwards on a flat surface has shown better results. For youngsters, playing games like Sudoku can improve attention, memory and happiness,” Dr Srivastava said.

Dr Rajas Deshpande, Consultant and Director of Neurology at Jupiter Hospital, Pune, spoke about the brain’s plasticity or the ability to form new neural connections even after a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

“Learning new skills, socialising and playing a musical instrument can further stimulate the brain and encourage new neural connections,” Dr Deshpande said.

Dr. Neha Kapoor, Associate Director and Head of Neurology Department, Asian Hospital, Faridabad, highlighted the benefits of playing Sudoku.

“Sudoku improves memory and reasoning skills, increases concentration, stimulates the brain, aids decision making, and brings a sense of happiness and accomplishment,” he said.

Keeping the brain active is important as we age. However, more research is needed to determine if brain-stimulating games may be beneficial for people with dementia.

However, regular mental activities can enhance cognitive function and improve overall quality of life.