As we get older, our brain’s functioning does begin to decline and it becomes more important to keep our mind active and engaged to slow the decline and keep our brains as sharp as possible, whether that be in our memory, focus and problem solving skills.
Technology has aided this significantly over the last few years and encouraging our loved ones to be active in utilising it can be really good for maintaining their brain’s health, and even slowing down the likes of dementia.
Whether they’re living in care homes, independently or with yourself, teaching them how to use apps can be a good start point, with plenty of games that are not only enjoyable but can have a positive impact on cognitive functioning too. Here are five perfect for our elderly loved ones…
Lumosity
One of the most well-known brain training apps, Lumosity offers a wide range of different games that are specifically designed by neuroscientists. The aim of each game is to target individual cognitive skills, including the likes of memory, attention, flexibility and problem solving to strengthen.
Training sessions are personalised based on the user’s areas of strengths and where there needs to be room for improvement, while it’s really user friendly too, with it easy to navigate and games being relatively short, making them perfect for adding to a daily routine.
Peak
With over 40 unique games, aimed to challenge various aspects of cognitive health, Peak’s games are gentle yet engaging and ideal for playing at a relaxed pace.
One of the real benefits of the app is that you can track progress over time, offering insight into where users are strengthening and where perhaps needs some extra attention, perhaps as a result of decline due to age.
Again, it’s an app that’s really well suited to older adults as instructions are clear, it’s easy to navigate and you don’t need to be a rocket scientist, or a teenager, to figure it out.
CogniFit
Offering a more comprehensive approach to cognitive health, this app starts with a personalised assessment that can help identify strengths and weaknesses in cognitive health. From there it develops a personalised plan with tailored games to target the areas that need it most, as well as maintaining strength in a person’s better performing areas.
The app’s games are both stimulating but simple to understand, but it does require a subscription. However, you can enjoy a free trial first to see if it’s the right app for your loved one.
Elevate
Elevate is a brain training app that focuses on core skills such as reading comprehension, mental maths, and speaking abilities. It is highly rated for its interactive, visually engaging design and personalised challenges that adapt to each user's skill level.
For elderly users, Elevate’s simple and clear instructions make it easy to follow, while the app’s bright, cheerful layout is welcoming and accessible. With its daily workout reminders, Elevate encourages regular engagement, helping users incorporate brain training into their daily routine. While the app requires a subscription for full access, the free version offers a good selection of exercises to get started.
MindMate
MindMate is an app specifically designed for older adults, focusing on brain health, physical activity, and emotional wellbeing. Alongside cognitive games, MindMate offers fitness tips, recipes for brain health, and articles to support mental wellness. The cognitive games are based on memory exercises, speed, attention, and problem-solving, providing a gentle yet effective way to stimulate the mind.
The app’s straightforward design and age-friendly interface make it particularly suitable for elderly users who may be less comfortable with technology. MindMate is free to download, making it an excellent and accessible choice for those seeking a holistic approach to cognitive health.
