Can Brain Training Games Help?

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The idea of “training” your brain to keep it sharp is certainly appealing. Just as we exercise our muscles to stay strong, many people hope that puzzles, games, and brain training apps can fortify their minds against cognitive decline. But does brain training really work, or is it just a myth?

Over the past two decades, brain training games have become hugely popular, sparking the rise of apps and websites claiming to boost brainpower and potentially stave off dementia. Your author is addicted to “Connections.” Research shows that these games can help improve specific cognitive skills. For example, if you practice a memory task repeatedly, you’ll likely get better at remembering similar things. But can they make you “smarter” overall or prevent dementia? The answer is more complex.

Experts agree that playing brain games won’t necessarily prevent cognitive decline. According to Dr. Adrian Owen, a cognitive neuroscientist, these games help you improve on the task you’re practicing—similar to learning to play an instrument. But much like how learning the violin doesn’t make you a better trumpet player, mastering a brain game doesn’t usually enhance unrelated skills. Claims that brain training will make you sharper across the board or protect against dementia lack strong evidence, he says.

However, there’s promising research on the cognitive benefits of engaging in mentally stimulating activities, even beyond games. Activities like reading, learning a new language, playing board games, or working on crossword puzzles may contribute to what scientists call “cognitive reserve.” This concept suggests that building up “mental muscle” might make your brain more resilient, so even if changes occur, symptoms might appear later or be less severe.

This cognitive reserve idea helps explain why individuals with higher education levels or cognitively challenging jobs show a lower risk of dementia. Similarly, mentally stimulating hobbies may help delay cognitive impairment, though the connection is based on observed associations rather than direct proof. It seems that regularly challenging our minds, whether through reading or puzzles, builds networks and strengthens the connections between neurons, which could act as a buffer against cognitive decline.

So, does this mean brain training games aren’t worth it? Experts are divided. For some, structured games may offer a convenient way to engage in cognitive activities, especially for those who find the exercises enjoyable or motivating. Dr. Joe Verghese believes these games can be a worthwhile expense if you enjoy them and feel stimulated. But Dr. Owen suggests there’s little scientific proof that these games go beyond offering mental stimulation to truly protect against dementia.

Perhaps the takeaway is this: like physical activity, mentally engaging activities are beneficial, and they have no downside. But when it comes to brain games, don’t feel you must invest in an expensive program. Whether you enjoy crossword puzzles, learning new skills, or playing memory games, what matters most is consistency and engagement. Cultivating a lifestyle filled with a variety of stimulating activities is likely the best way to build cognitive resilience and keep your mind sharp as you age.

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