![]() ![]() But if you’re looking for one more reason to play more games, this is it. To this point, playing a word game each day can’t cancel out habits known to be destructive to brain health such as having a diet high in ultra-processed foods, not getting enough sleep and not exercising. It is only one ingredient in the recipe for success,” Dr. “Word games will not improve brain health in isolation. It’s important to remember that word games are just one piece of the cognitive health puzzle (so to speak). Related to this, science has shown again and again that social connections are vital for healthy aging. “Adding a social element to any game-whether it is a physical sport or a word game-can improve energy and mood, both of which play a critical role in staying mentally sharp,” she says. Clar says that it can be especially beneficial to play word games (or other types of games) with other people. Related: If You Want to Improve Your Brain Health, This Is the Very Best Food You Can Eatĭr. Truly any game that provides some form of intellectual stimulation has benefit to it. Also, since learning a new language is linked to better brain health, downloading a second language app (like Duolingo) can be a great way to support your brain too. “Word games like crossword puzzles and Scrabble are great, but numeracy puzzles like sudoku and chess are also fantastic for supporting memory,” Dr. (If you’re reading this, you’re likely someone who likes to win!) Now that you know that word games are, in fact, good for brain health, you may be wondering which games in particular support cognitive health the most. Story continues The Best Games for Brain Health All of this is pretty encouraging news for anyone who likes to play games! More into sudoku (a number game) than crosswords? Another scientific study found that regularly playing sudoku (or similar games) was linked to higher memory scores. Related: Brain Experts Agree That This Is the Absolute Worst Food for Your Mind ![]() Another study found that doing crossword puzzles delayed a decline in memory in subjects who developed dementia by an average of 2.5 years, compared with people who didn’t do crossword puzzles. One 68-year-long study found that playing analog games (AKA non-digital games) was linked to better cognitive health in old age. Clar explains that the reason why word games are good for brain health is because they can improve attention, verbal fluency, memory and processing speed-all skills that can decline with age. “While there are many variables that contribute to ‘brain health’-including nutrition, exercise, and engaging with community-stimulating activities such as learning a new language, acquiring a new skill set, or playing word games also have an important role in supporting cognitive vitality,” she says.ĭr. Elana Clar, MD, a neurologist with New Jersey Brain and Spine, the hype around word games is real: They are good for brain health. Related: What To Improve Your Brain Health? This Is the Most Important Supplement To Take Is Playing Word Games Good for You?Īccording to Dr. ![]()
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