Neurogames are planned mental activities to stimulate and improve various brain functions such as memory, attention, reasoning etc.
In addition to strengthening cognition, neurogames can help improve the functional capacity of elderly with light cognitive impairment. This is what a study conducted by Brazilian researchers underlines and published magazine Geroscience In January of this year.
Neurogames, also called digital cognitive training, mental activities are planned to stimulate and improve the various functions of brainAs a memory, attention, reasoning and resolution of problems. “The exercises are based on the principles of neuroplasticity, which is the ability of the brain to improve and improve their functions”, explains Rogério Panizzutti, professor at the Institute of Psychiatry at Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (Ufrj) and senior author of research.
Already light cognitive impairment (CCL) is characterized by a cognitive decline that goes beyond aging normal, but it is not yet serious enough to be dementia. At this stage, functional independence in daily activities is preserved, although the activities can be slower, less efficient and more inclined to errors. The phase, however, represents a critical window to prevent or slow down a more serious cognitive decline.
“From a certain point, the cognitive commitment compromises the functioning of the person. He has difficulty performing daily tasks, he loses independence and needs the help of others,” says the professor. Over time, the consequences of cognitive loss can reach total dependence.
In the study, neurogames were used to work on the executive functions of the elderly with CCL, but there are other applications. “They can also be used, for example, by young people who Study for competitions And they want to attract attention, “says Cíntia Monteiro Carvalho, the first author of the study and researcher at the neuroscience laboratory and brain improvement (Labnace)”. You can work memory, executive functions, language. It depends on your goal “.
Improvement of performance and learning
The study participated 66 participants over 60 years of age and with slight cognitive impairment. They were divided into two groups. One was subjected to tests with Neurogames, while the other participated in sessions with conventional digital games.
At the end of the intervention, which lasted 10 hours, the digital cognitive training group showed an improvement of 21% of the functional performance and 36.75% in learning compared to the group that tested the conventional games.
The results were measured by an instrument called Canadian employment performance measurement (Copm)Which evaluates how the participants themselves perceive their ability to carry out daily tasks. “People felt more capable and have had better performances in their activities of everyday life,” says Panizzutti.
To perform the tests, the researchers used the BrainA platform that offers more than two dozen exercises organized in six main categories: attention, brain speed, memory, social skills, intelligence and navigation. The exercises are adaptive and automatically adapt to the user’s performance to maintain a balanced level.
The platform is available in Portuguese and is accessible via computers or mobile devices, but it is not free. The user has to pay a monthly commission.
Ways
Researchers work in other research related to the theme. One of these, according to Cíntia, intends to understand how exercise It can interfere with the results.
Another project aims to use transcranial electrical stimulation (TDC) in the cerebral regions associated with cognitive disabilities. The idea, according to Panizzutti, is to stimulate these areas while patients play neurogames.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
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