June 21, 2007
Senior Journal
Staff Reporter

Responding to a study estimating a quadrupling of individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease by 2050, George Mason University professor Andrew Carle has released a list of what he considers the best “Brain Games” available to consumers seeking to maximize cognitive function.

The study, presented June 10th at the International Conference on Prevention of Dementia in Washington, D.C., estimates that as the world’s population ages, Alzheimer’s could affect more than 100 million people by 2050.

Conducted by researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the study also stated that interventions that could delay onset of Alzheimer’s by as little as one year would reduce prevalence of the disease by 12 million cases by that time.

Carle, assistant professor and director of the Program in Assisted Living/Senior Housing Administration at Mason, is nationally and internationally known for coining the term “Nana” Technology to describe technologies that can improve quality of life for older adults.

The following computer-based brain games, according to Carle, represent among the best current technologies for addressing cognitive declines inherent in the aging process. The list reflects his opinions and is not based on formal criteria.

Posit Science – Brain Fitness Program 2.0:  Developed in conjunction with more than 50 brain scientists, the program utilizes software that can be purchased for use on a home computer.  Recommended “training” includes completion of 40-hours of a variety of 15-minute exercises over a period of 90 days.

A peer-reviewed study completed by the company showed an average 10-year improvement in memory among participants, with results maintained three months past conclusion of the training. $395/single user, $495/two users. Available at www.positscience.com