Adding a social element to gaming can boost energy, mood, and mental sharpness.
The brain undergoes changes as we age, much like the body. As we get older, recalling certain words or names can become more challenging. Multitasking may also become more demanding, even if it wasn’t a problem before. However, aside from diet and regular exercise, we can maintain brain health through various cognitive activities. Many people start or end their day with various puzzles, aiming to exercise cognition. But do these games genuinely support brain health?
Is playing word games good for you?
While various factors contribute to brain health, including diet, exercise, and community engagement, stimulating activities such as learning a new language, acquiring new skills, or playing word games also play a significant role in supporting cognitive vitality – says neurologist Dr. Elani Clar, noting that word games are beneficial for brain health as they can enhance attention, verbal fluency, memory, and processing speed.
One study spanning 68 years found that playing analog games (also known as non-digital games) is linked to better cognitive health in older age. Another research revealed that solving crossword puzzles delayed memory decline in participants who developed dementia by an average of two and a half years compared to those who didn’t solve puzzles. For Sudoku enthusiasts, another scientific study showed that regular gameplay of these number puzzles is associated with higher memory scores.
Best games for brain health
Word games like crosswords and Scrabble are excellent, but puzzles involving calculations like Sudoku and chess are also fantastic for supporting memory – suggests Dr. Clar.
Additionally, since learning a new language is associated with better brain health, downloading a language learning app can be an excellent way to support your brain. In fact, any game that provides some form of intellectual stimulation has benefits.
Adding a social element to any game, whether it’s a physical sport or a word game, can improve energy and mood, both of which play a crucial role in maintaining mental sharpness – suggests this neurologist.
However, it’s essential to remember that daily word game playing cannot counteract habits known to be detrimental to brain health, such as a diet rich in ultra-processed foods, insufficient sleep, and lack of exercise.
