For many people, one of the most annoying aspects of growing older is the prospect of a failing memory. With the American population “graying,” and the baby boomer generation becoming senior citizens, there is a huge interest these days in keeping the brain alert and active, and preventing the onset of dementia or just plain old “senior moment” forgetfulness.
With this in mind, many software manufacturers are pouring research money into exercises and programs to keep the mind sharp and the memory intact. Research has consistently shown that human memory is a “use it or lose it” proposition. We either continue to exercise our cognitive functions, or they decline.
New studies also suggest that the human brain is more agile and “plastic” than once thought, meaning that cognitive function can be improved greatly with consistent exercise, the same way that muscle tone can be improved by working out at the gym.
With millions of baby boomers now reaching the age where they are concerned about the effects of aging, the market for brain health programs and products is a huge one indeed. Nintendo has jumped on the bandwagon by introducing their “Brain Age” video game, which uses progressively more complex math and memory exercises to develop and improve cognitive ability, including memory function.
Other companies aren’t far behind; MindFit is a software program combining over a dozen “thinking exercises” and cognitive skill assessment in a highly personalized training environment. The program measures current cognitive function, and lays out a clear plan for improving memory, spatial thinking and creativity.
These types of software programs and web sites will likely become more and more popular over the next few decades as the boomer generation ages. And when you consider that the physical training industry sells for approximately $16 billion a year in the United States, it’s easy to see how “cognitive fitness” could also be a huge moneymaking industry in the next few years.
Already, experts claim that “cognitive fitness” related products and software are growing in popularity by approximately 50% annually. Sales in this sector are expected to be as high as $2 billion per year over the next seven years.
With so much money at stake, it is inevitable that we will begin seeing dozens of new products, software and services designed to “work out” the brain. And with research continuing to show the value of exercising the mind on a daily basis, it may not be long before cognitive training sessions become as common as going to the gym for work out.
How do these computer games compare to other ways seniors are told to exercise their brains, such as Scrabble and learning a foreign language.
I write a blog for boomer consumers called The Survive and Thrive Boomer Guide at http://boomersurvive-thriveguide.typepad.com
Rita
Comment by Rita — May 20, 2008 @ 7:09 pm