It Began with a Game He Created Called NeuroRacer
In his studies at the University of California, San Francisco, players were tasked with driving a simulated car down a winding road while pressing a button whenever a prompt came on the screen (multitasking). Participants aged 60 to 85 were tested before and after playing the game. They were compared to control groups, which performed only one action or did nothing at all. Participants played the game for one hour a day, three days a week, for four weeks. For the multitasking group, the team observed a significant improvement in memory and attention after the month-long test. They showed an increase in their ability to multitask and in their reaction time, performing as well or better than players in their 20s. It’s a remarkable result. What got my attention is that the multitasking game players could also remember things in their daily lives better, such as names, addresses and phone numbers. The improvement could still be observed as much as six months later.3 These findings coincide with other studies suggesting that popular games such as World of Warcraft can enhance neural plasticity in seniors.4 Other studies show that it's not just videogames; ASMR videos can help your brain by relieving stress.Project EVO – a Literal Game Changer
Now, Dr. Gazzaley has teamed up with Alkili Interactive to produce Project EVO, the next wave of cognitive-centered gaming. Doctors and researchers have an advantage by producing games that players will want to access on their mobile phones, tablets, and other devices. With players constantly (and voluntarily) checking in to the game, long-term measurements and gathering of results can be achieved in a fun, non-intrusive way. The data can be used to find and diagnose cognitive problems by assessing how a player performs over a lifetime and will become a powerful tool for cognitive enhancement, according to its proponents. Project EVO ADHD is the first video game approved by the FDA to treat brain disorders. The team is at work on versions designed to specifically treat Alzheimer’s, Traumatic Brain Injury, and several other brain disorders.5Harmless Fun for the Family
We may be hearing much more about Project EVO and other forms of game-therapy soon. In the meantime, you can feel good about joining your grandkids for a game or two. Not only will you surprise them, but you’ll also be bonding with them… connecting on a level they enjoy and understand. And with luck, you’ll be improving your brain, too.- Habitual action video game playing is associated with caudate nucleus-dependent navigational strategies
- No, there is no evidence for a link between video games and Alzheimer’s disease
- NeuroRacer
- Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease: Video Games May Help Seniors Retain Cognitive Function
- Alkili Interactive
