Cognitive training

For the maintenance of a good level of intellectual functions (attention, orientation, memory, language, to cite some of the most relevant) current research has established the importance of cognitive training as primary prevention against cognitive deterioration and its progression. This stimulation focuses on improving memory and processing capacity by combining activities with different levels of difficulty. Among the most entertaining activities we can include crosswords, wordsearch and jigsaw puzzles, and games (also on the computer or tablet). This practice distracts, amuses, teaches, relaxes and stimulates keeping the brain active. Three sessions per week of cognitive stimulation (on the computer or not), between 30 and 45 minutes each, have beneficial effects in improving different cognitive abilities like memory, reducing the probabilities of developing depressive symptomatology. Cognitive training recommendations:

1. Play games to stimulate language and/or memory: crosswords, wordsearch and jigsaw puzzles, Scrabble or Simon.
2. Practice more complex intellectual activities such as card games, chess, dominoes, etc.
3. Work with cognitive stimulation notebooks.
4. Use programs or applications for mobile phones and tablets specifically developed for cognitive stimulation.
5. Participate in cognitive stimulation workshops.
6. Participate in memory workshops.
7. Read. Reading stimulates imagination, creativity and helps us maintain our vocabulary and verbal skills.