The Role of Games in Improving Memory and Attention

“Thinking games” are fun, challenging and provide many benefits - but not all of the ones you may expect! For example, there currently is no conclusive evidence that mental games like crossword puzzles, chess, or Sudoku can help maintain brain health in the sense of preventing dementia. However, according to a study in International Psychogeriatrics, thinking games may actually improve cognitive functions like processing speed, organization/planning, decision making, and short-term memory. For best results, use brain games combined with other activities that support a healthy brain.

First and foremost is to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. The heart supplies blood and oxygen to the brain - so without a healthy heart, your brain cannot function optimally. Keep both of these vital organs in top shape by refraining from smoking and excessive drinking, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and reducing stress.

Another activity to pair with brain games is to get your heart-rate up with aerobic exercise. 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week increases blood flow to the hippocampus, improving memory storage and cognitive reserve (i.e., the brain’s resistance to damage). This combination of mental games and exercise actually provides more benefit than exercise alone.

Finally, enhance the effectiveness of mental games by changing up the games you play. For example, if you are already a whiz at chess, try learning a card game like bridge or a word game like Boggle. Novelty forces your brain to learn and change - so keep on adding new and interesting games to your repertoire.

When paired with a brain-healthy lifestyle, a steady influx of new and mentally challenging games can improve memory and attention and even keep your cognitive functions sharp into advanced age - what better excuse to make time for fun and never stop playing?