Have you ever come across this situation: you kept something in a very safe place but cant remember where it is? Or maybe you run to pick something from the storeroom, only to get there and think, “why did I come here?” Sometimes you might even forget the names of people you see everyday. As we age, our brains also get older resulting in those familiar effects such as forgetting names or multitasking not being as easy as it once was. Experts say that brain exercise may help delay cognitive decline and stimulate your brain to stay sharper for longer. “Any activities that require attention, focus and engagement challenges the brain” (Chen MD UCLA). Playing games at any age can boost confidence, leave you with a sense of accomplishment and provide an opportunity to socialize. According to a UCLA health neurologist, for older adults some games are better for boosting brain power and preventing cognitive decline. However, conclusive evidence on benefits of computerized brain games is limited. A review published in 2020 of studies on brain games offers some takeaway. “Used properly computerized brain games certainly can’t hurt, and they potentially can improve brain performances and offer protection against some cognitive decline”. (Dr. Darby, UCLA).
The greatest benefit comes from varying the type of games you play. Be sure to limit the screen time, especially close to bedtime. Exposure to blue light at night can disrupt your natural sleep cycle. Straining your eyes to see the screen at any time of day can lead to dry eyes, blurry vision and headaches. Most studied thinking games, especially for their effects on aging brain, are crossword puzzles. For people over 50 and older, how often you complete crossword puzzles may be directly related to your cognitive function. “The more you do them, the greater the impact on your focus and attention”. (Dr. Darby). Research shows that people older than 55 with mild cognitive impairment may see more cognitive effects from digital crosswords than from playing other computerized cognitive games. Challenging your mind and its recall ability with a crossword puzzle is excellent for cognitive stimulation. Another classic, crosswords are available both in print and digitally. Research shows that doing crossword puzzles regularly can improve the ability to focus on desired tasks, executive function, and memory in older adults. According to Health IQ, a large study showed that individuals who do crossword puzzles regularly showcase a cognitive function 10 years younger than their actual age. Video games also offer another way for older adults to boost their brain health. In conclusion any form of brain game can help to boost memory in older adults, but brain training alone is not enough to protect your aging brain. To best protect memory and cognitive function, combine a variety of brain games with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and quality sleep.
Used properly computerized brain games certainly can’t hurt, and they potentially can improve brain performances and offer protection against some cognitive decline
