As we age, cognitive function naturally worsens. As a family caregiver, you may be concerned about the cognitive health of your loved ones. Age-related cognitive decline and dementia can be challenging for family members and caregivers. Fortunately, there are simple and affordable ways to help maintain and improve cognitive health, such as brain training through memory games. Learn the benefits of brain training, different types of adult brain games, and low-cost options for brain training for your care recipient. 

What is brain training?

Brain training uses mental exercises or activities to improve cognitive function, such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Brain training aims to enhance brain performance and slow cognitive decline that can occur with aging or certain neurological conditions. Brain training can take many forms, including computer-based programs, mobile apps, memory games, and other mentally stimulating activities. It is based on neuroplasticity, which suggests that the brain can change and adapt throughout life, even in older adults.

How do adult brain games work?

Memory games and brain training exercises positively impact the neural networks of aging adults. Specifically, these games target the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, problem-solving, and other executive functions. 

As adults age, the prefrontal cortex can weaken, leading to declines in cognitive abilities. However, engaging in memory games and other brain training activities strengthens the prefrontal cortex's neural connections, improving cognitive functioning. 

Engaging in these activities increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factors. This protein plays a crucial role in maintaining and developing new neural connections in the brain. Memory games help build neural networks in the brain and hold off decline. Not only that, they provide numerous other benefits as well. 

What are the benefits of brain training?

Keeping the mind sharp as one ages can improve the overall quality of life. There are fun brain games and language apps designed for adults to help improve memory and cognitive function in the long run. Games can be beneficial for preventing dementia and age-related memory decline. 

Improved cognitive functioning

Brain training improves cognitive functioning in older adults. Studies have demonstrated that regular brain training can improve attention, concentration, and decision-making skills.

Better memory

Memory games are a popular form of brain training that can help improve memory in older adults. Regular practice with memory games enhances both short-term and long-term memory.

Decreased risk of cognitive decline and dementia

Brain training can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Adults engaged in regular brain training activities had a significantly lower risk of developing dementia. Families with a history of dementia and cognitive decline can work together on brain training as a fun family activity.

Enhanced mood and overall well-being

Brain training improves mood and overall well-being. By keeping the brain active and engaged, older adults can improve their quality of life and independence. Hobbies like music, dance, and chess improve cognitive function and have a social component that further enhances overall well-being. 

3 popular types of brain games for dementia patients

Most brain-training games fall into three categories: memory games, attention games, and language games. These games all work to help improve cognitive function and overall brain elasticity. 

Memory games

Playing memory games can help improve memory and the ability to think. These games involve remembering information, like matching items or recalling pictures and words. They're fun and easy ways for brain training. 

Attention games

Games that require your loved one to concentrate and focus on particular tasks are called attention games. Some examples of these games include word search puzzles, Sudoku, and matching games. There are many online adult attention games as well: 

Language games

Playing language games is a fun way to improve language skills like grammar, vocabulary, and spelling. Some examples of language games are crossword puzzles, word jumbles, and word association. 

4 budget-friendly brain training options

Brain training doesn't need to be expensive. There are several affordable and accessible options for brain training that family caregivers can consider:

Online brain training

Online brain training programs are a great way to improve cognitive function and memory from the comfort of your own home. These programs are designed to provide a variety of mental exercises that challenge different aspects of cognitive function, including memory, attention, processing speed, and problem-solving skills.

Some popular online brain training programs include:

1. Lumosity: Lumosity is a popular brain training program that offers a variety of games and exercises designed to improve cognitive function. Users can choose from different difficulty levels and track their progress over time. Lumosity offers a free trial and a subscription-based service.
2. BrainHQ: BrainHQ is an online brain training program developed by Posit Science. It offers a variety of games and exercises to improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and brain speed. BrainHQ also provides a personalized training program based on individual needs. It offers a free trial and a subscription-based service.

When choosing an online brain training program, look for evidence-based programs shown to improve cognitive function. 

Mobile apps

Mobile app brain training programs are a convenient way to improve cognitive function and memory. These apps offer a range of games and exercises that challenge different aspects of cognitive function, including memory, attention, processing speed, and problem-solving skills.

Here are some popular mobile app brain training programs:

1. Peak: Peak is a brain training app that offers over 40 games designed to improve cognitive function. The app provides personalized training programs, and tracks progress over time. Peak is available for iOS and Android devices and offers a free trial and a subscription-based service.
2. Elevate: Elevate is another tool offering various games and exercises to improve cognitive function. It focuses on improving communication, comprehension, and analytical skills. Users can also track their progress over time and compete with friends. Elevate offers a free trial and a subscription-based service.
3. CogniFit: CogniFit is a brain training app that provides a range of cognitive games to improve memory, attention, and other cognitive skills. The app offers personalized training programs, and tracks progress over time. CogniFit is available for iOS and Android devices and provides a free trial and a subscription-based service.

DIY brain training

As a family caregiver, you can create fun and engaging activities that can help keep your loved ones' minds sharp and active. As a family caregiver, you can make fun and engaging activities that challenge different aspects of cognitive function, such as memory, attention, processing speed, and problem-solving skills.

Here are some examples of DIY brain training activities:

1. Reading: Encourage your loved ones to read books or articles that interest them. Reading can help improve cognitive function and stimulate the brain.
2. Writing: Writing is another great DIY brain training activity that can help improve cognitive function. Encourage your loved ones to write in a journal or to write letters to family and friends.
3. Playing musical instruments: Playing musical instruments can help improve cognitive function, especially in older adults. Encourage your loved ones to learn to play an instrument or to continue playing if they already know how.
4. Solving puzzles: Puzzles like crossword puzzles or Sudoku can help improve cognitive function and memory. Encourage your loved ones to work on puzzles regularly.

Other at-home brain training activities might include:

• Playing board games
• Learning a new language
• Taking up a new hobby
• Engaging in social activities

These activities provide mental stimulation and social interaction, which are essential for optimal cognitive function and overall health. These activities should be enjoyable and engaging, not frustrating or stressful. Encourage your loved ones to choose activities they enjoy and are interested in and work at their own pace. 

Socializing and engagement

Socializing and engagement are important components of brain training for people with dementia. Research has shown that social engagement and participation in activities can help improve cognitive function, mood, and overall well-being in individuals with dementia.

Here are some examples of social and engagement activities that can be beneficial for people with dementia:

1. Participating in group activities: Group activities such as exercise classes, dance classes, or choir can provide opportunities for social interaction and engagement while also providing physical exercise.
2. Adult daycare: Consider signing your loved ones up for adult daycare, which can offer a variety of activities and opportunities for social engagement. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may need additional support or supervision.
3. Going outside: Encourage your loved ones to spend time outdoors, whether it's going for a walk, gardening, or sitting outside and enjoying the scenery. This provides an opportunity for fresh air, physical activity, and social interaction with others in the community.

Social and engagement activities should be tailored to your loved ones' interests and abilities.

You play a crucial role in promoting and facilitating brain training for your loved ones. By encouraging regular brain training activities and providing access to affordable options, you can help maintain and improve cognitive function, memory, and overall well-being.