What the Science Says About Computerised Brain Games
Research on the effectiveness of brain-training apps like Lumosity, particularly for older adults, presents a complex and nuanced picture. While there is evidence for some benefits, these findings are often limited in scope and do not support the broader claims once made by these programs.
Modest Gains in Trained Skills
Studies have shown that regular use of commercial brain-training games, including Lumosity, can lead to modest improvements in the specific cognitive skills being practiced. A 2020 meta-analysis of computerised cognitive games found that participants over 60 years old who used the programs showed statistically significant improvements in processing speed, working memory, executive function, and verbal memory. For example, participants in a Lumosity training group demonstrated improved sustained attention compared to a control group. It is important to note that these improvements are typically seen in the skills explicitly trained by the games themselves.
The Problem of Transfer
One of the most significant criticisms of brain-training programs is the lack of evidence for 'far transfer'—the idea that improving one cognitive skill (e.g., game-based attention) will lead to improvements in unrelated, real-world tasks (e.g., remembering a shopping list or driving safely). A 2017 scientific consensus statement highlighted this, recommending a balance of challenging, engaging, and social activities over solitary software drills. This suggests that while Lumosity might make you better at Lumosity games, it may not significantly impact your everyday cognitive abilities.
The FTC Settlement: A Major Caveat
In 2016, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) took action against Lumosity, resulting in a $2 million settlement over charges of deceptive advertising. The FTC alleged that Lumosity made unfounded claims that its games could help users perform better at work and school, and even stave off memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. The FTC's director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection stated that Lumosity "did not have the science to back up its ads". This ruling serves as a crucial reminder to critically evaluate the marketing claims of any cognitive-enhancing product.
The Role of Novelty and Variety
For brain training to be truly effective, the brain needs novel and complex challenges. Simply repeating the same set of games can lead to a plateau in benefits. Just as physical exercise requires varied movements to build overall fitness, mental exercise benefits from variety. Engaging in new and different activities, from learning a language to taking up painting, forces the brain to form new neural circuits and strengthens existing connections, contributing to overall cognitive resilience.
Lumosity vs. Holistic Cognitive Activities: A Comparison
To understand where a program like Lumosity fits into a senior's cognitive wellness plan, it's helpful to compare it with other forms of mental stimulation. A balanced approach often includes a mix of these activities.
| Feature | Brain-Training Apps (e.g., Lumosity) | Traditional Puzzles & Games | Learning New Skills | Physical & Social Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Activity | Short, repetitive, gamified exercises targeting specific cognitive domains like speed, memory, and attention. | Engagement with fixed problems that require strategic thinking, pattern recognition, and recall (e.g., crosswords, sudoku). | Acquisition of a novel, complex skill like a language, musical instrument, or new hobby. | Engagement in activities like dancing, gardening, or group exercises combined with social interaction. |
| Mental Stimulation | High, but primarily focused on the specific skills being practiced within the app. | High, often engaging multiple cognitive abilities like logic and verbal memory. | Very high, as it creates new neural pathways and demands complex planning and learning. | High, combining physical and mental engagement with significant social benefits. |
| Evidence for 'Transfer' | Limited to specific, trained tasks. Effects often do not extend to real-world functions. | Some evidence for delayed memory decline, but effects on daily life are uncertain. | Evidence suggests benefits can transfer more effectively due to the complexity and novelty. | Strong evidence for improved cognition and functional abilities, with long-lasting effects. |
| Social Element | Minimal, typically a solitary activity. Some platforms have leaderboards, but interaction is limited. | Moderate, can be done socially with family or friends (e.g., card games, board games). | Moderate to high, depending on whether classes or group activities are involved (e.g., language classes). | Very high, providing crucial social engagement that is vital for overall cognitive and mental health. |
| Opportunity Cost | Time spent on solo digital games might replace time for more socially engaging or physically active pursuits. | Generally low, as these are often relaxing or social hobbies. | Often requires a significant time commitment but offers high rewards for cognitive plasticity. | Low, as these activities provide multiple benefits (physical, cognitive, social) simultaneously. |
Holistic Strategies for Maximizing Cognitive Health
Instead of relying on a single app, a comprehensive approach is the most effective way for seniors to maintain and improve cognitive health. The goal is to keep the brain engaged, challenged, and healthy through a variety of stimulating activities.
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Learning new skills is one of the most powerful ways to promote neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to form new neural connections. This could include learning a new language, mastering a musical instrument, taking an art class, or learning a new game like chess.
- Prioritise Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, is crucial for brain health. It increases blood flow to the brain, improves mood, and stimulates the release of neurochemicals that encourage the growth of new brain cells and connections. A recent meta-analysis of combined training interventions confirmed that combining physical and cognitive exercise can be more effective than single interventions.
- Engage Socially: Social interaction is a powerful brain workout. Staying connected with friends and family, joining clubs, or volunteering provides mental stimulation and combats the loneliness that can negatively impact cognitive health.
- Mix Up Your Routine: Don't get stuck in a mental rut. Change your route to the grocery store, try a different type of puzzle, or engage all your senses with a new cooking recipe. Novelty is key to building new neural pathways.
- Maintain Overall Wellness: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, prioritising sleep, and managing stress, is fundamental to cognitive function. Physical activity and mindfulness techniques like meditation can help manage stress and improve working memory.
Conclusion
While programs like Lumosity can offer an engaging way to exercise specific cognitive skills like working memory and processing speed, they are not a magic bullet for preventing age-related cognitive decline. Evidence for these skills transferring to everyday life is limited, and past deceptive marketing has earned the industry caution. Seniors looking to maximise their cognitive health should view brain-training apps as one tool among many, and not a replacement for a holistic approach that includes physical exercise, social engagement, and lifelong learning. Ultimately, the best strategy for a sharp mind involves varied, challenging, and purposeful activities that keep the brain and body active and connected.
