A group of elderly individuals, including 92-year-old Norma Ryan, regularly gather to play mahjong, a traditional Chinese game involving tiles and strategy. The group describes the game as both challenging and competitive, with no single best player on any given day. Members range in skill level, and the game is played in a spirit of friendly rivalry. Research from the Alzheimer's Association suggests that the cognitive demands of mahjong—such as decision-making, memory, and pattern recognition—may help delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Some studies also indicate that the game can improve memory and attention in elderly players, offering potential benefits for brain health. Dr. Manisha Parulekar, a brain health specialist with Hackensack Meridian Health, highlights that mahjong is a strategy game that engages multiple areas of the brain, potentially optimizing function and strengthening those regions. She recommends it to her patients, emphasizing that the goal is to have a game that challenges the mind rather than relying on chance. Beyond its cognitive benefits, the social aspect of playing mahjong is also valued by participants. The weekly meetups foster real friendships and provide a sense of community. One participant mentioned that they learned to play by simply watching others, showing that the game is accessible to those new to it.