Mental acuity and modern technology

This is an acute question nowadays, whether smartphone apps can train the brain to be more efficient. They say apps can improve memory, sharpen attention, and enhance the pace of mental processing. 

Scientists suggest that playing special games may boost cognitive performance. One study of nearly 3,000 people showed that just ten brain-training sessions lasting 60 minutes significantly slowed the rate of cognitive decline. Also, a review of more than 150 studies revealed that memory, processing speed, and brain function were all enhanced by computerized games.

Today, there are numerous brain training apps to choose from. Consider some of the best below!

Lumosity

This is one of the very first apps created for brain training. More than 100 researchers from around the world worked on it to make it both entertaining and helpful. From 2007 until now, it has been played over three billion times by more than 85 million people. The games were devised to boost 5 areas of cognitive function: speed, flexibility, problem-solving, attention, and memory. 

If you are not sure that this app is a good fit for you, you can start a free 10-minute Fit Test. The app also allows you to compare your results with other people of your age. 

 Peak

This app offers intense mini-games that push you hard. Its fun and stimulating workouts are supposed to improve memory, boost concentration, and develop problem-solving. 

Peak is available on both Android and iOS; it was also rated by Google as one of the best Android apps. The basic version of this app is free and involves 4 brain games that you can play once per day, while the Pro version ensures a more personalized workout and unlimited access to over 40 games. You can also compare your results with other users of Peak.

Cognifit Brain Fitness

This app was designed by neuroscientists for “stimulating or rehabilitating” brain function in people with different conditions, like dementia, multiple sclerosis, brain injuries as well as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Cognifit Brain Fitness also provides users social interaction since they can challenge friends and check how they rank in real-time monitoring.

The basic plan on Android and iOS is free and allows access to three games. When upgraded, it includes more than 25 games and tests that evaluate cognitive disorders like depression, ADHD/ADD, and insomnia.

Elevate

Business Insider described this app as “professional and polished-looking”. Elevate was also the best iPhone app due to its top-quality entertaining-yet-challenging games that help to build communication and analytical skills. Mini-games offered in the app are supposed to strengthen focus, memory, and other cognitive abilities. 

You can download a free version of this app that offers up to five games on Android and iOS. Its upgrade gives access to more than 35 games and interesting features like a daily reminder to train and a progress overview.

If you don’t feel like any of the apps mentioned above fits you, you can check some other tools for mental acuity, such as Mensa Brain Training and Cognito.

Just find what works best for you!

Anton Kurapov

Anton Kurapov

PhD, a professor assistant at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Fascinated by the role of psychology in lives of people and simply astonished by the complexity of the brain and its functions.

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