Sep 23, 2021 | Marie Suszynski, Writer | @mariemayohecs | Comments (13)
Q: Do brain training memory apps for smartphones work as advertised? I’m looking to slow the memory loss that I feel I’ve been experiencing.
A: There’s some promising evidence that brain-training smartphone apps — with popular choices being Lumosity, BrainHQ, Elevate or Peak — may have a mild to moderate effect on improving memory and other types of thinking in older adults with age-related cognitive decline or those with mild cognitive impairment.
While brain-training apps may provide a boost, there’s no substantial evidence that they can prevent or slow cognitive decline. They also don’t seem to help people with cognitive decline that has progressed to dementia. There’s also considerable debate as to whether brain-training apps simply make you better at the brain-training exercises or tests, or whether the improved cognition extends into tasks of everyday life.
Potential benefits of brain-training apps require a fair amount of work. They must be used regularly and fairly intensively, and the effects fade quickly if you stop. In one study in which a brain-training app improved memory and thinking speed, study participants used the app for one hour a day, five days a week for eight to 10 weeks.
Brain-training apps have important positives, such as being portable and easy to use. Most have a variety of activities, and the difficulty level increases as you improve.
If you’re motivated to use brain-training apps — and don’t mind paying for them — they’re a reasonable way to try for a cognitive boost. However, you may prefer other forms of mental engagement and challenge — such as social activity, starting a new hobby or studying a foreign language — which may be just as effective in terms of maintaining mental sharpness.
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FAQs
While brain-training apps may provide a boost, there's no substantial evidence that they can prevent or slow cognitive decline.
Do brain training apps actually work? ›
"While some studies show that brain training games are not effective, the recollection and work that the brain does during these games keeps your mind fresh and alert," Avena said, adding that while anybody can benefit from them, they're most beneficial for older adults due to their declining cognitive function.
Are brain training programs effective? ›
But does it really work? Researchers aren't 100% sure. Training improves skills on some tasks, but it's still uncertain if those results transfer to everyday life. However, there's certainly no harm in using cognitive training to stay engaged, focused, and mentally active.
Does BrainHQ really work? ›
Specifically, the IMPACT study found that: People who used the BrainHQ exercises got better at the exercise tasks. In particular, they showed large improvements in processing speed. This finding isn't unusual; people are expected to improve at exercises they were taught to do and practiced.
Do brain training apps increase IQ? ›
Even though brain training apps may appear to improve your ability to complete tasks within the game – there is little evidence that it actually improves it.
Is brain training a real thing? ›
So how well does brain training work? Many experts aren't sure they trust game makers who say their products are based on real science. There just isn't enough data to show that playing these games has a big effect on how well kids learn. There may be some benefits for some kids.
What is the #1 brain supplement? ›
Of all the supplements recommended by experts for brain health, omega-3 fatty acids top the list.
What is the number one food that fights dementia? ›
There's no single or “best” food to fight dementia. Eating patterns that include several anti-inflammatory foods may help to prevent or slow dementia. These include leafy greens, nuts, berries, whole grains, beans, and olive oil.
What vitamin is best for brain memory? ›
Vitamin D. Vitamin D is notable for supporting strong bones and helping to prevent osteoporosis. It's linked to healthy brain function, too. Maintaining healthy levels of vitamin D may strengthen memory and prevent dementia.
Does Lumosity really improve brain function? ›
The results were disappointing. There was no effect on brain activity, no effect on cognitive performance, and no effect on decision-making. (The participants who trained with Lumosity did improve on the cognitive assessment, but so did the control group and so did a group who played no games whatsoever.
The general recommendation is to complete at least 3 training session per week and you should see improvements after only 6 months. It is a general recommendation and you can train more. The more you train, the better it is. Just like going to the gym, the more you exercise, the stronger your brain becomes.
Which is better, Lumosity or BrainHQ? ›
BrainHQ is unique among brain-training programs, because great science has always been the top priority. Here's how BrainHQ stacks up against Lumosity, scientifically speaking: (see note below for details on calculations.) So if you want real science and real results, BrainHQ is the best choice in brain training.
Are brain apps worth it? ›
While brain-training apps may provide a boost, there's no substantial evidence that they can prevent or slow cognitive decline. They also don't seem to help people with cognitive decline that has progressed to dementia.
Are there any brain supplements that actually work? ›
B vitamins like B6, B12, and B9 (folic acid) all play a role in brain health. But unless you're low on them or pregnant (folic acid is a must to prevent birth defects), a supplement is unlikely to help. If you're at high risk for Alzheimer's, ask your doctor.
Does Brain Gym actually work? ›
There is no evidence using strict scientific method that brain gym exercises have any benefit. While Brain Gym International claims that this program claims to improve learning, studies have not found any clear evidence for this.
Do brain activation exercises work? ›
Mental exercises that stimulate your brain help improve cognitive function, reduce anxiety and depression risk, and improve sleep and quality of life.
Is Lumosity actually effective? ›
There was no effect on brain activity, no effect on cognitive performance, and no effect on decision-making. (The participants who trained with Lumosity did improve on the cognitive assessment, but so did the control group and so did a group who played no games whatsoever.
Does brain boost actually work? ›
Scientific evidence does not support the use of any supplement to prevent, slow, reverse, or stop cognitive decline or dementia or other related neurological disease such as Alzheimer's. Brain health experts answer your vitamin questions.