Brain training seems like an appealing solution to a common problem that people have with depression: a loss of cognitive function which can make you wonder if your becoming demented.
Does brain training work? A number of our patients say that they have had some positive results from it. But a new study raises questions about how effectively it works if you’re doing it on your own.
The researchers conducted a meta-analysis that synthesized results from more than 51 studies with a total of almost 5000 participants.
The good news is the researchers found small to moderate benefits for nonverbal memory, verbal memory, working memory, processing speed, and visuospatial skills. Computerized cognitive training did not appear to improve executive functions and attention.
The bad news is that the most common model for self-administered cognitive training, at home use of a program several times a week, turned out to be the least effective. In fact there was no significant benefit to such programs.
“Our results send a key message to the public,” said study author Michael Valenzuela, PhD, associate professor and leader of the Regenerative Neuroscience Group at the Brain and Mind Research Institute at the University of Sydney, Australia. “They show that brain training carried out in a centre can improve cognition in older adults, but commercial products promoted for solo training use at home just don’t work. There are better ways to spend your time and money.”
The authors seem to have no doubts about their findings. But the results are sure to be controversial.
Overall, the bulk of the research in this area suggests that you might be better off hiring a physical trainer. Aerobic exercise may be the most powerful intervention for boosting cognitive function.
You can read the study here:
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