For more than a decade, and boosted by the new quest for longevity, brain-training apps have become a billion-dollar industry. These apps promise to boost your cognitive skills with just a few minutes of daily play. But do they really deliver? Recent research suggests they might not be as effective as advertised. Are brain-training games a scam? Let’s take a look at the data.
The promise to train your brain with a mobile game
The popularity of brain-training apps has surged in recent years. Apps like Lumosity, Elevate, and Peak boast millions of users who are eager to enhance their cognitive skills. According to a report by SharpBrains, the digital brain health market was valued at $1.9 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach $3.4 billion by 2022. These apps claim to improve various cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Lumosity, for example, advertises that its games are designed by neuroscientists to train memory, attention, flexibility, speed of processing, and problem-solving.
The appeal is clear: who wouldn’t want to sharpen their mind while playing engaging games?
Many apps even offer personalised training programs that adapt to the user’s performance, ensuring that the tasks remain challenging yet achievable. The idea is that, by regularly challenging your brain with these exercises, you can keep your mind sharp and even improve cognitive function.
Examining the evidence
To determine the effectiveness of brain-training apps, it’s crucial to look at the research. A comprehensive review by Harvard Health explored whether these apps deliver on their promises. The findings are mixed.
On one hand, some studies suggest modest benefits from brain-training games. For instance, a study published in the journal PLoS ONE found that participants who engaged in brain-training games showed improvement in specific cognitive tasks practised within the app. This includes tasks like memory recall and pattern recognition.
Additionally, a 2014 study by researchers at the University of Iowa found that older adults who played a speed-of-processing game showed improvements in their ability to complete everyday tasks quickly and accurately. These findings indicate that there can be some cognitive benefits, particularly for tasks that are directly related to the games being played.
On the other hand though, and despite these positive findings, there are significant limitations and criticisms. One of the primary criticisms is the lack of evidence supporting the transfer of skills to real-world tasks. While users may get better at specific games, this improvement often does not translate to broader cognitive abilities necessary for daily life.
A meta-analysis published in Psychological Science in the Public Interest reviewed over 130 studies on brain-training programs and concluded that the evidence for generalised cognitive benefits is weak. The authors found that, although users might improve in the tasks they practiced, there was little evidence that these skills transferred to unrelated cognitive tasks or everyday activities.
Furthermore, the American Psychological Association (APA) has expressed scepticism about the claims made by brain-training companies. The APA notes that while brain training can improve performance on trained tasks, there is little evidence that it enhances broader cognitive abilities.
The reality of brain-training apps
One of the key issues with brain-training apps is the concept of skill transfer. Many of these apps show users improving in the specific tasks they practice, but this does not necessarily mean they are becoming smarter or more cognitively capable in general.
Skill transfer refers to the application of learned skills to new and different contexts. For brain-training to be truly effective, the skills developed in the app would need to transfer to real-life situations. Unfortunately, this transfer often does not occur. A review by the Stanford Center on Longevity and the Max Planck Institute for Human Development found that most brain-training apps fail to show meaningful improvements in everyday cognitive functions.
Another issue is the lack of evidence for long-term cognitive benefits. Many studies on brain-training apps measure short-term improvements, but there is little research on whether these gains persist over time. A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that while participants showed initial improvements in cognitive tasks, these gains diminished after a few months of not using the app.
Introduction to Dual-Task Training
Given the limitations of brain-training apps, it is worth exploring alternative methods for cognitive enhancement. One promising approach is dual-task training, a method that involves performing two tasks simultaneously. This type of training is designed to improve cognitive flexibility and multitasking abilities.
Dual-task training involves engaging in two activities at the same time, which requires the brain to divide its attention and manage multiple streams of information. For example, this could involve walking while solving math problems or balancing on a stability board while reciting words from memory. The idea is to challenge the brain in a more holistic way, promoting better integration of different cognitive processes.
Research supports the effectiveness of dual-task training in improving cognitive functions. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that dual-task training significantly improved cognitive performance in older adults, particularly in tasks requiring executive function and processing speed. Another study in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity demonstrated that dual-task training could enhance both cognitive and motor functions in elderly participants.
Dual-Task Training at SPARKD
At SPARKD, we specialise in dual-task training programs designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Here are some key benefits:
Real-World Application
Unlike brain-training apps, dual-task training focuses on skills that directly transfer to everyday activities. By practising tasks that require multitasking and cognitive flexibility, individuals can improve their ability to manage complex situations in real life.
Comprehensive Approach
Dual-task training integrates multiple cognitive processes simultaneously, providing a more comprehensive workout for the brain. This holistic approach helps improve various aspects of cognitive function, including memory, attention, balance, spatial awareness, and much more.
Customer Testimonials
Our clients have experienced significant improvements through dual-task training. Nir Eyal, Author & Investor shared, “Sparkd is the best way that I’ve ever found to get in shape in a way that takes your mind off of the exercise and puts you in the moment. I can not only train my body but also train my mind in a very quick, high impact 45 minutes.”
While brain-training apps and games are engaging and popular, the evidence suggests they may not be as effective as promised in improving overall cognitive function. The lack of skill transfer and long-term benefits are significant drawbacks. In contrast, dual-task training at SPARKD offers a more reliable alternative, with research-backed benefits and real-world applicability. If you’re looking to enhance your cognitive abilities, consider exploring our dual-task training programs for a more effective and lasting impact on your brain health.
