Why chess? Here's what research shows.
Chess is one of the most cognitively demanding games in the world — and science is beginning to show it may be one of the most powerful tools we have against Alzheimer's.
Chess activates the exact regions Alzheimer's attacks.
Alzheimer's disease progressively damages the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and other brain regions responsible for memory, planning, and spatial reasoning. Chess — uniquely among games — demands intense, sustained activity across all of these regions simultaneously.
This isn't a coincidence. Researchers believe that regularly challenging these specific brain systems may build what neuroscientists call cognitive reserve — a kind of mental resilience that can delay or reduce the effects of cognitive decline, even as physical changes occur in the brain.
Dr. Kaileigh Byrne of Clemson University, who is leading our research study, notes that "there is almost no work specifically on chess" despite its remarkable engagement of multiple cognitive functions. We're working to change that.
Memory
Remembering piece positions, past moves, and learned patterns. The hippocampus is among the first regions damaged by Alzheimer's.
Planning & Strategy
Thinking multiple moves ahead, evaluating consequences, and managing complex decisions all activate this critical region.
Visualization
Mentally rotating pieces and visualizing future board states engages the brain's visual processing centers intensely.
Coordination
Even the physical act of playing — moving pieces, managing a clock — engages fine motor coordination and attention.
Lead Researcher: Dr. Kaileigh Byrne, associate professor of cognitive psychology at Clemson University.
Study Type: Cross-sectional study comparing long-time chess players with non-players or infrequent players, both aged 65 and older.
Research Goal: Determine which brain regions activate during chess play, and whether long-term chess experience correlates with reduced cognitive decline markers.
Status: Actively recruiting participants — launched 2024 and ongoing.
Adults 65+ interested in participating can contact:
decisionlab@clemson.edu →"There is almost no work specifically on chess, despite its engagement of multiple cognitive functions simultaneously. This research is long overdue."— Dr. Kaileigh Byrne, Associate Professor of Cognitive Psychology, Clemson University
The bigger picture.
Alzheimer's is a crisis affecting millions of families. Community-driven research like ours can shift what's possible.
6.9 million Americans
Currently living with Alzheimer's disease — a number projected to nearly double by 2060 without new interventions or preventive approaches.
No cure exists yet
There is currently no approved cure for Alzheimer's. Prevention, early detection, and cognitive reserve-building activities like chess are among our most powerful tools.
Community as a solution
Social connection and mental engagement together are among the strongest protective factors identified in Alzheimer's research. Chess delivers both in one activity.