Question 171 of 433
Do brain games work?
The short answer
Brain games mostly make you better at brain games. Real-world challenge works better.
There is one possible exception: a specific kind of computer training that exercises visual processing speed was linked to lower dementia risk in the long-term follow-up of a federally funded trial. Crosswords and puzzles are pleasant and harmless.
What builds what scientists call cognitive reserve is harder and more interesting: learning a language or an instrument, dancing, teaching, volunteering, and real conversation. Novelty, difficulty, and other people are the active ingredients. Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s Keep Sharp is a readable guide.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
LIMITED to MODERATE HUMAN EVIDENCE — Specific training effects; transfer to broad daily function and dementia prevention varies.Evidence grade (draft mapping)BLimited or small human studiesPart 12, Q171 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.