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posted on:
4/28/2012 11:47:49 AM EST
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Can computer games keep your brain fit?(2)
Health, support, energy, strength
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An earlier study, sponsored by Posit Science, the company that created the popular Brain Fitness Program, used standard memory tests to assess 487 people over age 65. Half were then assigned to complete the program’s 40 hour-long sessions. The other half—the control group—watched educational DVDs and were quizzed on the material. The software users boosted their memory and attention scores more than the control group. But self-reported improvement in everyday situations was fairly similar: 48% for the Brain Fitness group versus 40% for the controls.
There are no studies comparing one commercially available program to another or to mind-stimulating hobbies. Other factors that make it tricky to assess the worth of brain-building computer programs are the potential effect of programs that become more challenging as the player becomes more successful; the effect of competitive features in a program; and the player’s desire to get his or her money’s worth from buying the software, some of which costs nearly $400.
So far, it looks like simply playing games that require concentration won’t help you remember important names, faces, and appointments. What can work are practical tools designed to address specific problems encountered in daily life.
To stay sharp, your mind needs regular workouts in creative thinking, problem solving, and intellectual focus. To stretch and exercise your brain, choose an activity you enjoy—reading, playing cards, or doing crossword puzzles are some good examples. If you’re feeling ambitious, try learning to speak a new language or play a musical instrument. Most of these activities come at a much lower cost than brain-training programs, and you’ll probably find them to be a lot more enjoyable, too.
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