For some people, puzzles have become a fun hobby that they can do while they are sipping a hot coffee and relaxing on a Sunday morning. However, study shows that there is something more to these games. While exercising can help you strengthen your muscles, working out your brain will have similar impact on your mind. For instance, it can help delay memory loss for people who are suffering from dementia by at least 2.5 years. It also works better compared to the drugs and medications when preserving cognitive functions and memory.
How Mind Games Boost the Function of Your Mind
If you are constantly losing your keys or forgetting the names of the people close to you, then you might want to try the puzzle games that are being advertised today. Based on the research conducted at University of Pittsburgh, Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and other mind games will enhance your cognitive function and boost your memory.
Helping People with Dementia
According to the 2011 study that involved 488 individuals, those who are doing crossword puzzles on a regular basis showed a considerably slower decline on their memory after being diagnosed with the dementia. In addition, around 101 individuals have been diagnosed with dementia during the period of the study. Those who are regularly doing puzzle games have delayed their memory loss for more than 2 years.
Preserve Cognitive Functions and Memory
A review of the accumulated studies that was conducted in 2013 shows that mind games are the most effective method in preserving the person’s cognitive functions and memory. Based on the review, puzzles are actually more effective compared to most medication when it comes to protecting our mental health.
It Enhances Cognitive Ability
With regards to the kids, puzzle enhances their capacity to understand and visualise the entire relationship. There are also particular subjects that can be enhanced with the help of the brain games such as recognising and learning colours, alphabets, numbers, and shapes. They will understand how to properly categorise the object. For the adults, advanced types of puzzle games such as scrabble, Sudoku, and mathematical puzzles can improve their language skill. Word games and crossword puzzles will enhance their research skills, spelling, and vocabulary.
It Enhances Concentration
Concentration is necessary when solving brainteasers. This means that puzzle games will be able to enhance the attention span of kids and adults. By adjusting the difficulty of the puzzle, you will be able to control the amount of attention required in solving the puzzle. Once you notice that the individual is being comfortable in a particular level, you can adjust the difficulty that will prompt their brain to concentrate more.
Based on the study conducted by National Health Institute last 2014, the benefits provided by puzzle games can be enjoyed for at least 10 years. By trying activities that stimulates your cognitive functions, you will be able to keep your brain healthy. While puzzle games are originally designed as a source of entertainment, it has also been proven to boost the function of our brains.