All Brain Games Are Created Equal?
Absolutely… NOT!
When searching for ways to boost your cognitive abilities, it’s important to differentiate between regular brain games - such as puzzles, teasers etc. - and actual brain “training” games. Standard brain games are designed as mere forms of entertainment, though some providers may claim otherwise. This critical distinction is becoming increasingly harder to identify as the demand (and potential profits) continues to rise - particularly among the vast number of aging baby boomers now seeking ways to hold on to their wits and prevent - or at least slow down - the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
More than just fun and games
Effective brain training games, on the other hand, are carefully designed by cognitive science experts with the intent of helping players actually sharpen their key cognitive skills like memory, attention, executive functions, visual perception, thinking and reasoning etc. When combined with the know-how of expert game developers, these brain training games can also be more engaging and pleasurable (fun) than regular brain games. Players also come away from each progressive session feeling sharper and more mentally fit overall.
Like joining a mental fitness club
Similar to professional physical fitness training, a comprehensive exercise program is essential in order for you to achieve the greatest results, as well as maintain and build on them. Before you even begin training it is important to first identify your various cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and follow a regimented personal training program offering feedback and tailored to meet your own personal needs and goals.
The most effective brain training games feature varying levels of difficulty which become more challenging as you progress. Unlike regular brain games, those purported to actually improve your mental skills will also provide the player with detailed feedback and hints on how to improve. Mind360’s online training platform even provides you with a person coach to guide you every step of the way.
Steve Daitch is the Social Media Manager at Mind360.com - a leading scientific brain training games developer for boosting your memory, attention, executive functions, reasoning, and other key cognitive skills. As a Mind360 visitor you simply select your own Personal Training Program, which comes complete with a personal coach and constant feedback to ensure your swift and visible progress.
