Top 5 Digital Activities for Cognitive Stimulation

Here is a summary of Professor Gazzaley's recommendations for maximising cognitive stimulation through technology, including working memory and attention span.


1.  Combining a physical activity with a cognitive activity (multitasking)
2.  Using apps that utilise rhythm
3.  Virtual surround creating activity in a multidimensional space
4.  Lowering external stimuli and creating an environment for meditation
5.  Restore and refresh the brain by using nature


Game development in this field utilises these 5 areas to make games more targeted, personalised and multi-modal.  Looking forward to using these games when they are released some time next year (I hope!)

Accessing Nature through Digital Technology

Exposure to the natural environment can decrease stress and enhance brain restoration.  Using multiple senses such as sound and vision (and as previously described in past posts - smell and taste!) it is possible to modulate cognitive stimulation with a calming effect, using the principle of challenge/restore/challenge/restore.  Access to nature gives us the capacity to restore and refresh our mind.  Older people sometimes have less opportunity to experience nature and its nurturing effect.

Two apps I have previously discussed that can be used to create the ambience of nature are "Pocket Pond" and "Nature Sound".  Another app that can be wonderful for getting back to nature is "Relax M. HD" (free).  As well as river, ocean and wind sounds, there are birds, a purring cat, frogs croaking and thunder.  My personal favorite is the campfire sound.  The crackling of the fire sets my mind into a relaxed state almost immediately.

 I have previously used it with Henry who through his life had enjoyed camping.  We "boiled the billy for a cup of tea" and sat with the campfire sound, lights down low and frogs, birds and wind chimes in the background.  Lovely!