Monetizing Scrambled Thoughts

In the last several years, video-game companies and so called “brain experts” have made millions and perhaps hundreds of millions of dollars selling brain games and programs that promise to help us reduce memory loss and perhaps even prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

The promoters of Brain games and brain game programs inform buyers that by “exercising their minds” they can reduce the effects of Age-Associated Memory Impairment (AAMI) in much the same way that regular physical activity can keep your body stronger and healthier.

Age-Associate Memory Impairment or AAMI simply refers to a normal decline in memory due to aging. Although we don’t like to admit it, some decline in memory and physical health is normal as we age therefore the question becomes “do these brain programs have any effect on the natural progression of AAMI? “

In fact there are no scientific studies which suggest these memory games and programs provide any improvement in what the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) calls “cognitive vitality.” Certainly there is anecdotal evidence but the notion that you can reduce your “brain age” is more wishful thinking that fact.

Rather than improving your mental health, it has even been suggested that these games could be detrimental to cognitive vitality because they provide a panacea to players which keep them from doing the things that have been proven to improve mental health. In other words, time spent playing the game could be spent on other activities known to improve cognitive abilities.

The good news is that AGS research suggests there are lots of things people can do to keep their brain sharp and working well throughout their life. The bad news is the prescription for improving your cognitive ability is pretty much the same as what North Americans have been avoiding to keep the rest of their body healthy - diet, exercise, sleeping and eating right.

“Some research suggests that doing such things as exercising regularly, eating right, and staying intellectually active can contribute to cognitive vitality,” says American Geriatrics Society (AGS) member Stephanie Studenski, MD, professor of medicine in the division of geriatrics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

Here is what Foundation for Health in Aging (a foundation set up by the AGS) recommends to maintain cognitive vitality:

• See your health care professional regularly - Many health problems—such as high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, or not eating right—can make it hard to keep your mind sharp. It’s important to get regular check-ups to make sure you’re in good health and that any health problems you may have are under control. Follow your doctor’s or nurse’s advice

• Exercise Regular exercise—at least 30 minutes, 3 times a week—can help you stay sharp. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which helps keep the brain healthy and working well. Exercise may even help new brain cells grow.

• Get enough sleep - Older adults don’t need less sleep than younger adults. Getting less than 7 or 8 hours of sleep at night can make it harder to concentrate and remember.

• Get rid of stress - Over time, stress can make it hard to get a good night’s rest. Stress can also make it harder to concentrate, learn and remember. Exercise is a good stress reliever.

• Think, think, think The more you use your brain, the better it’ll work. Read. Do that crossword puzzle. Play bridge. Join a discussion group at a senior center or church. Take a class at your local community college. Learn to play the piano or speak French.

• Socialize - Spending time with other people also seems to give your brain a boost. Find ways to meet and get to know others. Join a club.

• Eat right - A diet that is low in saturated fat (the kind found in fried foods, butter, cheese, beef and pork) but rich in fruits and vegetables and B vitamins is good for your brain. Your diet should also include a couple of servings of fish, especially salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel, each week. These fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good fats that your brain needs. Ask your doctor or nurse if you should also take multiple vitamin daily.