INTERESTING
A recent study entitled “Effects of Structured vs Self Guided Multidomain lifestyle Interventions for Global Cognitive Function” was published in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) in July 2025. This study looked at a big question: Can healthy habits actually improve thinking and memory in older adults who are at risk for dementia? We all know healthy habits are good, but do they truly affect brain function?
The answer: Yes — and when these habits include a structured setting with group support, brain function can be improved even more.
Researchers followed a group of 2,011 adults aged 60–79 who had risk factors for cognitive decline (like inactivity, poor diet, or family history of dementia). Everyone was encouraged to improve their lifestyle in five key areas:
● Exercise- 30 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic activity four times a week, plus strength and flexibility exercises twice a week
● Nutrition- dark leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, olive oils, fish, and limiting sugar/unhealthy fats
● Mental stimulation- computer based brain program three times a week for 30 minutes
● Social engagement- regular engagement in social activities
● Heart-health monitoring- regular check ins on blood pressure, weight, lab results
Participants were split into two groups:
1. Structured Program: Frequent group meetings, coaching, goal-setting, and scheduled lifestyle activities.
2. Self-Guided Program: Only a few meetings and general recommendations — participants were mostly on their own.
Over two years:
● Both groups improved their cognitive performance, showing that lifestyle changes DO matter for brain health.
● The structured group improved more. The difference wasn’t huge, but it was statistically meaningful — and suggests that support and accountability help people make healthier choices more consistently.
● People who started with slightly lower cognitive scores benefited the most from the structured program.
This study shows that everyday behaviors — like eating well, moving more, and staying socially and mentally active — can positively influence brain health, even in people at higher risk for dementia.
The key takeaway: You can improve your brain health through lifestyle changes — and having a supportive, structured program can give you an extra boost.
Bottom Line
Healthy habits really do help your brain. And while self-guided changes are good, having a team, a plan, and regular check-ins may make those habits easier to stick with — and more effective.
**Interested in contributing to Alzheimer’s/Dementia research? Support me in running the 2026 Chicago Marathon raising funds for the Alzheimer’s association!
More information: http://act.alz.org/goto/christina_gosselin
1. Baker, L. D., Espeland, M. A., Whitmer, R. A., Snyder, H. M., Leng, X., Lovato, L., Papp, K. V., Yu, M., Kivipelto, M., Alexander, A. S., Antkowiak, S., Cleveland, M., Day, C., Elbein, R., Tomaszewski Farias, S., Felton, D., Garcia, K. R., Gitelman, D. R., Graef, S., … Carrillo, M. C. (2025). Structured vs self-guided multidomain lifestyle interventions for global cognitive function. JAMA, 334(8), 681. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2025.12923
2. Study results: Alzheimer’s association. U.S. POINTER. (n.d.). https://www.alz.org/us-pointer/study-results.asp
