Cognitive Training
As we grow older, our brain function decreases. Consequently, you may experience memory and comprehension difficulties.
You can boost your brain function by exercising the brain (cognitive training), in a similar manner to physical activity that strengthens body muscles.
Cognitive training is no less essential to the brain’s function as physical activity and healthy nutrition.
What is brain training
The brain is composed of neurons – brain cells. Brain training helps regenerate brain cells and create new connections between the brain’s neurons.
In brain training, you exercise and challenge various cognitive abilities, such as concentration, memory, spatial perception, planning, and problem solving.
Various measures can be useful, for example computer games, applications on the smartphone or tablet, board games, a page and pencil, etc.
Examples for cognitive training
Important to point out
Important to point out
To boost the brain, it is important to experience new things and raise the level every time a certain exercise becomes too easy, in a similar manner to physical activity.
Choosing an enjoyable activity can serve as an incentive for perseverance and achieving results.
How to improve training effectiveness
- Exercise regularly, and for a long period of time
- Diversify both tasks and practicing different skills
- For example, if you play sudoku every day and succeed, it is recommended to diversify with another type of training, such as learning a new language, playing Remi cube, listening to lectures, etc.
What can I do if I experience cognitive decline
If you feel a decline in one of your cognitive functions, or people comment about it, it is recommended that you refer to an occupational therapist for assessment and treatment. The service is provided by the HMOs and requires a family doctor’s referral.
