What New Research Reveals About Keeping Your Mind Sharp
By Jerry and Lisa Meloche, Pharm.D., Owners, Compounding Pharmacists
Most people know they should exercise their body to stay healthy as they age. What many don’t realize is that the brain also benefits from regular exercise.
For decades, cognitive decline was viewed as an inevitable part of aging. Today, scientists understand that the brain possesses an incredible ability called neuroplasticity—the capacity to adapt, form new connections, and improve function throughout life. This discovery has led researchers to explore whether targeted brain training can help maintain cognitive health and reduce the risk of age-related decline.
One program receiving significant attention is BrainHQ®, an online cognitive training platform developed by neuroscientists and supported by decades of research. Unlike traditional puzzles or word games, BrainHQ uses scientifically designed exercises that adapt to each user’s performance, continuously challenging the brain to improve speed, attention, memory, and processing skills.
Interest in BrainHQ recently increased following findings published in a journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. Researchers analyzed data from the landmark NIH-funded ACTIVE Study, which followed more than 2,800 older adults for 20 years. Participants who completed a specific type of speed-of-processing training—now available through BrainHQ— experienced a significant reduction in diagnosed dementia compared to those who did not receive the training. In the group that completed booster training sessions, researchers reported a 25% reduction in dementia diagnoses over the study period.
These findings are particularly noteworthy because the benefit was not seen with every type of cognitive activity. Researchers found that the speed-based training produced measurable long-term results, suggesting that certain forms of cognitive exercise may be more effective than others.
Additional studies have shown improvements in areas such as attention, memory, processing speed, and everyday cognitive functioning among older adults who participated in BrainHQ training. Researchers believe these exercises help the brain process information more efficiently, supporting skills that are important for daily life, including driving, medication management, communication, and decision-making.
Brain health affects much more than memory. Cognitive function influences concentration, problem-solving, reaction time, learning, and the ability to remain independent. As life expectancy continues to increase, maintaining cognitive wellness is becoming an important part of healthy aging.
Of course, brain training is only one piece of the puzzle. Experts continue to recommend a comprehensive approach to cognitive health that includes regular physical activity, quality sleep, social engagement, healthy nutrition, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Brain training programs like BrainHQ are designed to complement these healthy lifestyle habits, providing structured mental exercise that targets specific cognitive skills.
An additional benefit for many older adults is accessibility. BrainHQ is available online and can be completed from home on a computer or tablet. The program is covered by Medicare and most Medicare advantage plans, making cognitive training more accessible for eligible participants. Some co-pays may apply.
At Creative Scripts Compounding Pharmacy, we are excited to introduce BrainHQ as part of our commitment to supporting whole-person wellness. Just as we take proactive steps to protect our heart health and physical fitness, caring for our cognitive health deserves equal attention.
If you have concerns about memory, focus, attention, or overall brain health, speak with your healthcare provider. Learning more about evidence-based cognitive training may be an important step toward maintaining a sharper, healthier mind for years to come.
Creative Scripts Compounding Pharmacy
239-261-0050
600 Goodlette Road North #108
Naples, FL 34102
www.creativescripts.net
Natives Serving Naples Since 2005