Bel Marra Health Reports on New Research Revealing Computer Games to Help Improve Seniors’ Memory
Toronto, ON (PRWEB) July 12, 2013 -- Bel Marra Health, who offers high-quality, specially formulated vitamins and nutritional supplements, reports on a new study revealing a new method that better protects the mental health of seniors.
As Bel Marra Health reports in its article, (http://www.belmarrahealth.com/anti-aging/computer-games-can-protect-mental-health-in-seniors/), it was traditionally believed that memory decline only occurs after the age of 60. However, recent studies suggest that it could actually begin as early as 45 years old. The Harvard Medical School has been doing extensive research in the area of memory and mental health for many years, boasting many studies that recommend taking the old-fashioned approaches when it comes to mental health in seniors, such as exercise, social activities, etc. But recently, UCLA researchers began exploring some more "new-age" and technological strategies for protecting the memories and mental health as people age, and have found a strong link between the use of computer games and better brain fitness and memory.
Close to 40 percent of older adults experience age-related memory problems. However, it was not until recently that research began exploring the effect of computer games on human brains. The UCLA researchers worked with 69 people who had an average age of 82. They were all dementia-free but living in retirement communities. The study monitored the seniors playing a computer brain-fitness program that consisted of both short and long term memory exercises. These exercises involved language, visual processing, spatial processing, reasoning, math, as well as problem solving. Over a six month period, 52 people who completed at least 40 sessions demonstrated stronger memory skills. The study showed that the more people played the brain-fitness computer games, the more improvement their memories demonstrated.
While it is true that the participants in the UCLA study were in relatively good mental health to begin with, the researchers believe that computer fitness programs could help protect individuals who are at risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. As one researcher pointed out, while people may not be able to completely protect their mental health from such diseases, it may be possible to delay the onset of symptoms, which the researchers believe can be accomplished with regular use of these sorts of specialized brain-fitness computer games.
Before the technology age, geriatric specialists and physiotherapists were quick to promote regular exercise as people aged. Countless studies showed a relationship between being physically active and having a healthy mind. Today, exercise – whether it is walking, swimming or playing tennis – may not be enough, according to the experts. To maintain good mental health, the brain needs more stimulation. And it seems as though technology can help and supplement regular exercise routines. According to the Mayo Clinic, a study conducted in Minnesota in 2012 showed that general computer use along with moderate exercise can go a long way in protecting brain function. Over 900 people between the ages of 70 and 90 took part in the study, reporting their physical activity, as well as their computer use. Close to 20 percent of those who used computers showed better memory, while almost 40 percent of people in the same age range who did not use a computer showed some cognitive impairment.
This latest information about computerized brain-fitness and better memory will lead to more studies on mental health and technology use. In the meantime, health experts suggest walking instead of driving, using stairs instead of elevators, learning new things regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, socializing, and using the computer or other technology gadgets, as a good overall strategy to preserve memory at any age.
While more research is needed to know exactly how much brain exercise is needed for good mental health, researchers reveal it could be different for each person. What they do know is that it doesn’t have to be extreme exercise; that it can be moderate, as long as it is regular. And exercise should also be supplemented with mind-stimulating activities.
(SOURCE: Libov, Charlotte. "Computer Games Can Reverse Mental Decline: UCLA Study." NewsmaxHealth. N.p., 26 June 2013.)
Bel Marra Health is the maker of “The Smart Pill,” a high-quality nutritional supplement that helps support clearer thinking and concentration, improves memory, and promotes a healthy mood. All ingredients are backed with scientific evidence. Every product is tested for safety, quality, and purity at every stage of the manufacturing process. Furthermore, Bel Marra Health products are produced only in Health Canada approved facilities, going the extra mile to ensure that our health-conscious customers are getting top quality products. For more information on Bel Marra Health visit belmarrahealth.com or call 1-866-531-0466.
Jim Chiang, Belmarra Nutritionals, Inc, http://www.belmarrahealth.com/, 866-531-0466, [email protected]
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