Speed Training Cuts Dementia Risk by 25%, Study Finds

New 20-year research reveals cognitive exercises can significantly delay onset of dementia.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A groundbreaking 20-year study published in February 2026 has found that 'speed training' - cognitive exercises focused on rapid object detection and quick decision-making - can reduce the risk of dementia diagnosis by 25% among adults aged 65 and older. The research, part of the long-running ACTIVE study, suggests that consistent training with booster sessions is key to maintaining the benefits over the long term.

Why it matters

The findings offer hope that proactive cognitive stimulation can help delay the onset of dementia, a growing public health concern as populations age. The study indicates that a relatively short period of targeted brain training, when coupled with ongoing reinforcement, can significantly bolster 'cognitive reserve' and the brain's resilience against age-related decline.

The details

The study involved over 2,000 participants aged 65 and older, who were divided into a speed training group and a control group. Those who completed the speed training regimen, which required rapid object detection and quick decision-making, experienced a 25% lower rate of dementia diagnosis compared to the control group. Researchers believe the training's focus on implicit, unconscious learning processes helps create more stable changes in the brain and strengthens cognitive reserve.

  • The 20-year study was published in February 2026.
  • Participants received 14 to 23 hours of speed training over three years, with booster sessions one and three years after the initial program.

The players

ACTIVE study

A long-running research project that has provided groundbreaking insights into the potential of cognitive training to delay dementia.

Andrew Budson

A researcher at Boston University who emphasizes that speed training should be part of a holistic approach to brain health, including new skills, physical activity, and creative pursuits.

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What they’re saying

“Whereas speed training showed the most significant impact, experts emphasize that it's not a standalone solution.”

— Andrew Budson, Researcher, Boston University

What’s next

Researchers are planning further studies to explore the mechanisms behind cognitive training and its potential for preventing or delaying dementia, including personalized training programs, integration with technology, combination therapies, and early intervention in younger adults.

The takeaway

The findings from this landmark study provide compelling evidence that proactive cognitive stimulation, particularly through speed training exercises, can significantly reduce the risk of dementia. By embracing a holistic approach to brain health, including ongoing learning and lifestyle interventions, individuals can take steps to maintain mental sharpness and delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.