Scientists at the Singapore University of Technology and Design have developed a multilingual touchscreen gaming app to help older adults improve cognitive skills and maintain mental clarity. Research results published In the journal Innovation in Aging (InAging).
Scientists have noted that cognitive decline is an inevitable part of the natural aging process, but some studies have shown that bilingualism in older adults promotes the development of neuroplasticity, preservation of cognitive reserve, and protection against Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers took advantage of bilingualism to create a new app that provides cognitive training in a fun way. It’s called DISC – Bilingual Intervention for Semantic Memory (Bilingual Trainer for Semantic Memory). The game program involves solving puzzles that improve memory, logic, thinking and attention.
The development has already been tested on cognitively healthy and cognitively impaired elderly volunteers. The results showed that using DISC resulted in greater improvements in mental performance compared to using traditional cognitive training and monolingual computer programs. Participants also showed greater interest in completing DISC exercises.
The scientists noted that after the improvement, the practice became known as Ami – (Enhancing Mental Arousal). The researchers are currently working to integrate the improvement into clinical practice and conduct additional tests.
Previously found It is an important risk factor for memory loss in the elderly.