Brain Workouts Reverse Decade of Age-Related Decline
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Resources & Recommendations
Books
- "The Sunday Crossword Puzzle" - Mentioned as an example of a mental activity that might need an update if it's no longer challenging, implying the need for continuous mental stimulation.
Tools & Software
- Lumosity - A brain training product mentioned as one of many available on the internet.
- Elevate - A brain training product mentioned as one of many available on the internet.
- Peak - A brain training product mentioned as one of many available on the internet.
- Cognifit - A brain training product mentioned as one of many available on the internet.
- BrainHQ - A cognitive training program that designed the "Double Decision" exercise discussed in the episode, and is noted for having extensive scientific backing.
Research & Studies
- Study on cognitive training and biological brain changes (Performed by a team including Etienne de Villiers d'Agni at McGill University) - This study provides evidence that cognitive training can cause biological changes in the brain, specifically increasing acetylcholine levels in older adults.
- Huge study by the Alzheimer's Association - This study explored whether a combination of lifestyle changes, including mental exercise, could slow cognitive declines in people in their 60s and 70s.
People Mentioned
- Etienne de Villiers d'Agni (Scientist at McGill University in Montreal) - Discussed his research on how cognitive abilities and acetylcholine levels change with age, and his involvement in a study on cognitive training.
- Mike Hasselmo (Director of the Center for Systems Neuroscience at Boston University) - Provided an expert opinion on acetylcholine and the "Double Decision" task, noting its compelling nature.
- Judy Pa (Scientist at University of California San Diego) - Is experimenting with combining cardio workouts with brain training using stationary bikes and virtual reality.
- Jessica Langbaum (Runs the Alzheimer's Prevention Program at Banner Health in Phoenix) - Offered advice on lifestyle changes for brain health, emphasizing doing activities one loves and can stick to.
Organizations & Institutions
- McGill University - The institution where Etienne de Villiers d'Agni works, who contributed to a study on cognitive training.
- Boston University Center for Systems Neuroscience - Mike Hasselmo directs this center and provided expert commentary on the study.
- Posit Science - The company behind BrainHQ, noted for its academic approach to mental fitness.
- Alzheimer's Association - Conducted a large study on lifestyle changes and cognitive decline, which included BrainHQ exercises.
- University of California San Diego - Where scientist Judy Pa is conducting research on combining physical and mental exercise.
- Banner Health - Jessica Langbaum runs the Alzheimer's Prevention Program at this institution in Phoenix.