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Cognitive Training

Published: 20.07.2026 at 03:30 AM,
Editor boerse-global.de

The WHO updates its dementia prevention guidelines, emphasizing the effectiveness of exercise, cognitive challenges, and social participation.

WHO Update: Lifestyle can prevent 45% of all dementia cases
A close-up of elegant wooden chess pieces on a dark chessboard, symbolizing intelligence and strategy. Illustration created by AI and provided by boerse-global.de

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), targeted lifestyle changes could prevent up to 45% of all dementia cases. In 2021, approximately 57 million people worldwide were affected, with annual costs nearing 1.134 trillion Euros.

Chess as a Mental Weapon Against Cognitive Decline

The WHO recommends a combination of cognitive and social activities alongside a healthy lifestyle. Chess is increasingly highlighted in this context. The film “The Chess Novel” (2021) illustrated how the game can preserve mental integrity in isolation.

This approach has been validated by practical experiences. In mid-July 2026, a children’s rapid chess tournament took place in Basel, while an advanced chess meeting for older adults began in Uttendorf. Earlier in June, World Chess Day featured blitz games between Austrian Minister Martin Kocher and player Annika Fröwis.

Movement and Thinking: The Dual Strategy

Cognitive health is closely linked to physical activity. A meta-analysis conducted in 2025 showed that aerobic training can enhance cognitive performance by up to 30%. New studies indicate that just 3,000 steps a day can slow the buildup of damaging tau proteins, and this effect increases significantly with 5,000 to 7,500 steps.

This is backed by a recent meta-analysis confirming that 3,000 daily steps indeed slow the formation of harmful tau proteins. The WHO emphasizes the importance of combining exercise, cognitive challenges, and healthy eating. For those interested, a free report provides a detailed step-by-step plan to implement these findings starting today. Request your free prevention plan now

The connection between thinking and movement is formalized in chessboxing, which was demonstrated at the Chess Summit in Dresden on July 18, 2026. Additionally, recreational sports are evolving: a table tennis city cup in Ludwigsburg integrated a class for Parkinson’s patients for the first time in mid-July.

Artificial Intelligence and Art Against Forgetfulness

The Danube University Krems has launched a pilot project called “Healthy Museum.” Sixty-eight participants over 60 years old engage in cognitive training through “Slow Viewing” and memory activation while appreciating art.

Chess, art appreciation, or walking—what activity best protects your memory? The WHO has updated its guidelines, stating that up to 45% of all dementia cases are preventable through lifestyle changes. This report summarizes the latest studies and provides a practical checklist for cognitive exercises you can do at home. Secure your checklist for cognitive exercises now

Technological assistance comes from AI: The startup Care Voice launched the application “Hallo Helga” in June. This application contacts elderly individuals via phone to combat loneliness and incorporates memory training, all while adhering to European privacy standards.

Experts and the WHO emphasize that regular movement, a healthy diet, and ongoing cognitive challenges offer the most effective protection. The guidelines explicitly recommend against using specialized vitamin supplements for prevention.

Disclaimer for our articles: No investment advice, no buy or sell recommendations. Information regarding prices, companies, and markets is without guarantee; changes may occur at any time. Stock market transactions can lead to significant losses. Our contributions are created and reviewed, in whole or in part, with the assistance of AI.


de | science | 69808232 |

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