How to Improve Memory & Delay Alzheimer's with Nelson Dellis - The James Altucher Show Recap
Podcast: The James Altucher Show
Published: 2026-03-17
Duration: 1 hr 17 min
Guests: Nelson Dellis
What Happened
Nelson Dellis was inspired to delve into memory techniques due to his grandmother's battle with Alzheimer's. Concerned about facing similar challenges, he explored various methods to enhance memory, eventually becoming a six-time USA memory champion. Dellis believes that while the exact prevention of Alzheimer's is unclear, keeping the brain engaged through memory training, physical activity, and a healthy lifestyle might delay its onset.
Dellis describes his daily memory training routine, which includes memorizing decks of cards, long strings of numbers, and names and faces. This training, he argues, rewires the brain to process information differently, potentially providing a buffer against cognitive decline. The discipline and mental exercise involved in memory competitions could be a key factor in delaying Alzheimer's, even if the techniques themselves are not directly linked to prevention.
James Altucher and Dellis discuss various memory-enhancing techniques from Dellis's book, Everyday Genius. These include the memory palace technique, which transforms abstract information like numbers into memorable visual stories. They also touch on cold reading and remote viewing, skills that, while not directly related to memory competitions, contribute to the perception of genius and understanding of human cognition.
Altucher shares his experience with speed reading and retention, a crucial skill given the volume of books he reads for his podcast. Dellis suggests techniques such as using a pointer to guide the eyes and focusing on key sentences in paragraphs to improve reading speed without sacrificing comprehension. He emphasizes that reading not only expands one's knowledge but also allows the absorption of life lessons from others.
The episode also explores the subjective nature of genius. Dellis argues that genius can manifest in various forms, from intellectual prowess to social intelligence. He points out that societal perceptions often tie genius to specific traits or abilities, such as mental calculation or having certain physical attributes like glasses.
Dellis recounts his experience with a group interested in using remote viewing to predict stock market trends. Despite initial skepticism, he found the practice intriguing and noted that it seemed to tap into an intuitive capability of the brain. Although the project was eventually halted due to unrelated legal issues, it provided Dellis with a new perspective on the potential of the human mind.
Throughout the episode, Dellis underscores the importance of mental training and discipline, drawing parallels between physical exercise and brain exercise. He suggests that memory techniques not only enhance specific skills but also contribute to overall cognitive health, potentially delaying the effects of neurodegenerative diseases.
Key Insights
- Nelson Dellis believes that mental exercises and memory training may delay the onset of Alzheimer's. Although no cure exists, engaging the brain through structured memory activities could provide a buffer against cognitive decline.
- Daily memory training for Dellis includes memorizing decks of cards and long strings of numbers. This routine rewires the brain to process information differently, which might help stall neurodegenerative conditions.
- The memory palace technique is a key method used by Dellis. It involves converting abstract information like numbers into visual stories, making them easier to remember and retrieve.
- Remote viewing, an ESP-like ability, intrigued Dellis when he was approached for a project to predict stock trends. Despite his initial skepticism, the practice led him to believe in the intuitive capabilities of the mind.