When you're racking your brain for gift ideas this holiday season don't forget to put brain training software on your list. You can be pretty sure that they don't already have it, and for the right person it's sure to make you a hit.
In itself, the right kind of brain training software can be truly satisfying for anyone who enjoys puzzles or mental challenges. But it will also provide the added value of sharpening concentration, memory, and mental processing for a long time to come.
But brain training software isn't just for the brainy sort. You may have a loved one who has begun to forget things or worries about the inevitable mental decline that comes with aging. Although you'll have to consider whether the gift will be appreciated in the spirit it's given, buying a brain training program for someone in this category may be the most loving gift you could give.
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.
In any emerging industry there will be sharp differences between the effectiveness and price of the products available. Many brain training programs have been put together with little scientific foundation and less proof of efficacy. Some have excellent pedigree but cost several hundred dollars. And then there are the hidden gems that deliver great things but can be had for pennies on the dollar. How do we know what to buy?
If you're in the market for brain training software, you should keep these key factors firmly in mind:
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 this really training software or just a set of games? Unless the training demands considerable concentration and provide considerable reward it's not going to be of any particular use in generating new cell growth and plastic change. If it does, then it should also be training the core cognitive functions of memory, processing speed, and left-brain, right-brain multi-tasking. This should all be clearly stated by the vendor.
3. Does the vendor recommend a particular training schedule and does the time commitment seem reasonable to fit into the gift recipient's schedule?
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. - 16003
In itself, the right kind of brain training software can be truly satisfying for anyone who enjoys puzzles or mental challenges. But it will also provide the added value of sharpening concentration, memory, and mental processing for a long time to come.
But brain training software isn't just for the brainy sort. You may have a loved one who has begun to forget things or worries about the inevitable mental decline that comes with aging. Although you'll have to consider whether the gift will be appreciated in the spirit it's given, buying a brain training program for someone in this category may be the most loving gift you could give.
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.
In any emerging industry there will be sharp differences between the effectiveness and price of the products available. Many brain training programs have been put together with little scientific foundation and less proof of efficacy. Some have excellent pedigree but cost several hundred dollars. And then there are the hidden gems that deliver great things but can be had for pennies on the dollar. How do we know what to buy?
If you're in the market for brain training software, you should keep these key factors firmly in mind:
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 this really training software or just a set of games? Unless the training demands considerable concentration and provide considerable reward it's not going to be of any particular use in generating new cell growth and plastic change. If it does, then it should also be training the core cognitive functions of memory, processing speed, and left-brain, right-brain multi-tasking. This should all be clearly stated by the vendor.
3. Does the vendor recommend a particular training schedule and does the time commitment seem reasonable to fit into the gift recipient's schedule?
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. - 16003
About the Author:
Oxford-trained scientist, author, and technologist, Martin Walker is a member of The British Neuroscience Association, Learning and The Brain, and MENSA. His company Mind Evolve Software publishes free information on the field of neuroscience and brain training as well as effective and affordable brain exercise software under the brand name Mind Sparke.
