Health
Brain games: the top games to play for a sharper mind
Games are a fun and flexible way to support brain health. While no single game can prevent cognitive decline, regular playing can help maintain and even enhance brain function.
By Sarah Coleman
It’s natural for our cognitive abilities to decline as we get older. However, games have emerged as a powerful and enjoyable way to support brain health. Playing games is mentally stimulating, slowing cognitive decline and even boosting certain brain functions. While games alone can't prevent conditions like dementia, they may help build cognitive reserve, the brain's resilience to damage or decline.
Game playing is shown to stimulate the release of dopamine, a brain chemical connected with pleasure and learning. This not only makes playing games enjoyable but also helps reinforce brain cell connections.
Studies using brain imaging have found that playing games can increase grey matter in areas of the brain connected with spatial navigation, memory formation, strategic planning, and fine motor skills. Playing games regularly has also been linked to improving your ability to understand information (processing speed) and react to it.
Types of games of games and their benefits
Let's explore the role of different types of games that can support your brain health.
Crossword puzzles
Crossword puzzles have long been a favourite for keeping your mind sharp. A 2024 study in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who regularly completed crosswords experienced slower cognitive decline than those playing various web-based games. The crossword group maintained better brain function and brain volume.
PLAY: Citro's free online crossword or cryptic crossword - updated daily!
Board games and card games
Classic games like chess, Go, mahjong and bridge aren’t just fun—they’re good for your brain. These games challenge memory, strategic thinking and problem-solving skills while encouraging you to get social!
Brain training apps
Brain training apps like Luminosity and Elevate are designed to improve specific skills like memory, attention and processing speed. Research suggests they not only can provide moderate in these areas, they can also boost mood.
Video games
From action-packed full-screen video games to quick games you might play on your phone like Angry Birds, video games can improve attention, processing speed and coordination. They’re often more entertaining than brain training apps, making them easier to stick with. That said, learning to play can be challenging and become addictive.
Exergames
Exergames combine physical activity with mental challenges, using motion-sensing technology like Nintendo Wii or Xbox Kinect. These games are understood to be useful for improving balance, mobility and brain function.
They’re a great choice if you have limited mobility or are looking to combine fitness with the games!
You can play a new Citro cryptic crossword or general crossword every day.
What’s the best choice for you?
The ideal game for promoting cognitive health will vary depending on individual preferences, abilities, and goals. However, here are some general recommendations:
1. Prioritise crossword puzzles: given their performance in recent studies, if they are your cup of tea, make them a part of your day.
2. Variety is key: playing a range of different games is likely to provide the most comprehensive cognitive benefits.
3. Choose challenging but enjoyable games: games should be difficult enough to provide mental stimulation but not so challenging that they become frustrating.
4. Consider getting social: games involving social interaction offer you additional benefits beyond mental stimulation, enhancing your mood and well-being through connecting with others. Perhaps there’s a bridge, chess or mahjong club near you?
5. Look for games that target multiple cognitive skills: games that involve memory, problem-solving, and quick thinking may offer you more comprehensive benefits.
6. Aim for consistency: regularly playing games is more beneficial than occasional intense sessions.
Game on!
Games are a fun and flexible way to support brain health. While no single game can prevent cognitive decline, regularly playing a variety of games can help you maintain and even enhance brain function.
But remember, games are just one piece of the puzzle. A holistic approach, including exercise, a healthy diet, socialising, and managing cardiovascular health, is essential for overall brain health.
Pick games you enjoy so you’ll stick with them. Whether it’s a crossword puzzle with your morning coffee, a bridge night with friends, or playing video games with your grandchildren, keeping your mind active and engaged is the key to healthy cognitive aging.
So, game on!
Feature image: iStock/PeopleImages
The information on this page is general information and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Do not use the information found on this page as a substitute for professional health care advice. Any information you find on this page or on external sites which are linked to on this page should be verified with your professional health care provider.
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