When I mention the words "brain training" more often than not I get a puzzled look. Despite all the hoopla in certain circles, brain training hasn't get hit the big time. This makes it a great gift idea for that "difficult to buy for" loved one in your life.
Do you know someone who loves puzzles, craves mental stimulation, and likes a challenge? Good brain training software not only meets these requirements but can also improve a person's ability to solve those puzzles and meet those mental challenges, making it doubly rewarding.
And if you know someone who doesn't get to the mental gym much any more, but has begun to rue the resulting mental flab, brain training software could be just the answer. Just as we may roll our eyes when our nearest and dearest buys us a pair of running shoes (when we haven't broken a sweat in years), we'll be secretly pleased that you care enough to invest in our mental well being.
Although it's not yet a household phenomenon, brain training has established the scientific credentials to demonstrate that it is here to stay. Week after week news studies show that the brain isn't just a fixed gray lump, but something that can grow and change with the right stimulation. Test scores, mental health, intelligence - all respond to the right kind of mental exercise making brain training software not just a novel gift but an adaptable one, too.
There's only one snag. Which software to buy? Here's where things get somewhat more difficult.
Some brain training programs have been designed and developed with serious intent and sound science to back them up. Whereas others are perhaps less well grounded. Then there's the matter of price. The programs range from tens of dollars to hundreds of dollars.
This checklist will help you choose wisely:
1. Does the vendor indicate the particular scientific basis for the training exercises, if so, what did the studies show? (Look out for vague or general claims.)
2. Is the software designed to require particular focus and attention with a challenging activity? These are the minimum requirements for effective brain training. And does it strengthen a broad range of cognitive skills (working-memory, speed, dual-hemisphere interaction)?
3. What's the timing and time requirement of the training program to produce the stated benefits? The vendor should be clear about how much time is needed and how long the recommended training program will last.
Since the field is so new, price doesn't necessarily indicate quality or effectiveness. Some brain training programs cost several hundred dollars, while other can be had for less than $50. The market has yet to settle on a reasonable cost for a good brain training product. If the product is expensive, can you afford it, does its effectiveness seem to warrant the additional expense? If the product is affordable, is the training protocol nevertheless robust and founded on good science?
One thing is sure, with a little research we can end up with a truly novel and satisfying gift that will be enjoyed and valued for years to come.
Do you know someone who loves puzzles, craves mental stimulation, and likes a challenge? Good brain training software not only meets these requirements but can also improve a person's ability to solve those puzzles and meet those mental challenges, making it doubly rewarding.
And if you know someone who doesn't get to the mental gym much any more, but has begun to rue the resulting mental flab, brain training software could be just the answer. Just as we may roll our eyes when our nearest and dearest buys us a pair of running shoes (when we haven't broken a sweat in years), we'll be secretly pleased that you care enough to invest in our mental well being.
Although it's not yet a household phenomenon, brain training has established the scientific credentials to demonstrate that it is here to stay. Week after week news studies show that the brain isn't just a fixed gray lump, but something that can grow and change with the right stimulation. Test scores, mental health, intelligence - all respond to the right kind of mental exercise making brain training software not just a novel gift but an adaptable one, too.
There's only one snag. Which software to buy? Here's where things get somewhat more difficult.
Some brain training programs have been designed and developed with serious intent and sound science to back them up. Whereas others are perhaps less well grounded. Then there's the matter of price. The programs range from tens of dollars to hundreds of dollars.
This checklist will help you choose wisely:
1. Does the vendor indicate the particular scientific basis for the training exercises, if so, what did the studies show? (Look out for vague or general claims.)
2. Is the software designed to require particular focus and attention with a challenging activity? These are the minimum requirements for effective brain training. And does it strengthen a broad range of cognitive skills (working-memory, speed, dual-hemisphere interaction)?
3. What's the timing and time requirement of the training program to produce the stated benefits? The vendor should be clear about how much time is needed and how long the recommended training program will last.
Since the field is so new, price doesn't necessarily indicate quality or effectiveness. Some brain training programs cost several hundred dollars, while other can be had for less than $50. The market has yet to settle on a reasonable cost for a good brain training product. If the product is expensive, can you afford it, does its effectiveness seem to warrant the additional expense? If the product is affordable, is the training protocol nevertheless robust and founded on good science?
One thing is sure, with a little research we can end up with a truly novel and satisfying gift that will be enjoyed and valued for years to come.
About the Author:
Martin Walker is the founder and CEO of Mind Evolve, LLC. For more information on the science behind brain plasticity and brain training as well as details of Martin's effective and affordable brain training products, visit the Mind Sparke website.
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