Do Memory Games Work?

There are many memory games that are gaining popularity, but do they really work? Research has shown that learning new things, doing puzzles and playing games helps the mind stay active. The most effective memory games allow you to improve your memory capacity and practice abstract thinking. nnJust as we go to the gym and engage in exercise to increase our physical fitness, the brain has to be kept stretching to strengthen in throughout our life. Early studies have shown that 20 minutes of exercise 3 times a week will help in stimulating the mind, strengthening attention spans and memory recall abilities. nnMemory loss occurs as we age, and whilst there is little we can do to prevent it, we can definitely slow it down. Memory games are one form of doing so, as are regular physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle. To maximize the benefits of memory games, pair it with a change in your diet and light physical exercise. Chess and other card games are useful only if balanced with good playing habits, as staying still for extended periods can cause abdominal obesity. nnPlaying these games with friends is also beneficial. There is much anecdotal evidence that such memory games are helpful, as playing these games and puzzles stimulates the mind and keeps it active. These games have also been shown to boost the dendrites in your brain that are responsible for processing information. Dr. Michael Valenzuela, a clinical neuroscience research fellow at the University of New South Wales’ School of Psychiatry, says games like wordplay are effective in preventing Alzheimer's disease.nnStudies on adults who engage in memory exercises and games have shown a marked decrease in brain metabolism in the area of the brain directly linked to working memory and other cognitive functions, suggesting that they were using their brains more efficiently. Most people fail to realize that they are in control of their mind, even as they get older. Simple lifestyle changes can go a long way towards improving your memory and brain, as well as your overall health. n