Tablet-Based Puzzle Game Intervention for Cognitive Function and Well-Being in Healthy Adults: Pilot Feasibility...

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Gerontology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Cognitive health is crucial for maintaining daily functions and preventing cognitive decline or dementia.
• Cognitive activities, including games, are recognized for their benefits on cognition.
• Digital games offer a novel modality for cognitive engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cognitive and well-being benefits of dynamic adaptive casual puzzle games.
• To assess the feasibility of digital puzzle games for cognitive training in healthy adults and older individuals.

Main Methods:

• Pilot randomized controlled trial with a crossover design (12 participants, aged 46-75).
• Two 8-week intervention phases: puzzle games vs. newspaper reading.
• Measurements of cognitive function and well-being at pretest, midtest, and posttest.

Main Results:

• Participants showed improvements in visual attention and visuospatial measures after the puzzle game intervention.
• Digital puzzle games were found to be feasible for home-based cognitive training.

Conclusions:

• Dynamic adaptive puzzle games are a viable tool for cognitive training in adults and older populations.
• Algorithm-based adaptation enhances suitability for diverse cognitive skill levels.
• Findings support future prevention strategies and trials in at-risk groups.