Exercising and playing games appears to benefit the brain health of older women. In a new study published in the journal Neurology, researchers at the University of California, San Diego examined over 750 older adults using brain scans and tests of thinking speed and memory. They analyzed cognitive reserve, or the brain’s ability to withstand the effects of diseases like Alzheimer’s without showing a decline in thinking or memory skills. Women who reported more physical activity had greater thinking speed reserve, which wasn’t observed in men. Women who read, took classes and played games more frequently showed a greater memory reserve as well.