Q&A: Do brain-training apps work? » Mayo Clinic Connect (2024)

FAQs

Q&A: Do brain-training apps work? » Mayo Clinic Connect? ›

While brain-training apps may provide a boost, there's no substantial evidence that they can prevent or slow cognitive decline.

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Of all the supplements recommended by experts for brain health, omega-3 fatty acids top the list.

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.

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.

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.

How often should you do brain training? ›

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mental exercises that stimulate your brain help improve cognitive function, reduce anxiety and depression risk, and improve sleep and quality of life.

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.

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.