When we tend to think ‘computer games = bad for us”. Usually because they involve sitting still for long periods with zero social interaction and they eat up time when there is something more productive to be done. However, there is a new breed of games that is good for you, your brain and your ADHD.
Here are 3 that I recommend:
Lumosity is a web-based cognitive training program designed by neuroscientists that allows you to improve your mental abilities by playing games. The games are based around 5 cognitive functions: memory, attention, speed, flexibility, and problem solving. Based on the areas you particularly want to focus on, Lumosity creates a personalized training program just for you.
P.S. it has a 3 day free trial so you can test it out.
www.attengo.com
Like Lumosity, Attengo is a web-based cognitive training program. However, the key difference is that it was specifically designed for people with ADD and learning disabilities. The emphasis of the training is on memory and attention. When you sign up, you are assessed on both of these areas and then a program is created for you.
Brain Age is played on The Nintendo DS. The premise behind the game is that the opium brain age is 20 years old. Your brain’s age is assessed when you start (I was horrified to find my brains age was 87. Over twice my biological age!). However, with fun games and problems you can quickly lower your age. Brain age was designed to stimulant your prefrontal cortex the anterior part of the frontal lobes and home to executive functions. It is thought that by using this area of the brain with these games you can sharpen intelligence.
As more is learned about the brain, we realize that just like the body, we need to exercise the brain to keep it in good shape. These programs help to develop and improve the cognitive functions that ADHD adults struggle with…and what better way to do this than by playing games!!
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I’m gonna play devil’s advocate here because I do suffer from this, and I’ve found this works. Strategy video games are a must for ADHD people. Expecially games such as what are called RTS (real time strategy). Games such as these are usually about building up towns or settlements, then an army to send out and attack your opponent’s army or town. Key elements of these games are resource management (math and planning), remembering what each unit’s function is and how to use them effectively (memory), oh and many of today’s games are online, meaning playing with other people around the world.
I’ve been playing the games Warcraft 3 (not to be confused with World of Warcraft) and the Civilization games for years (Civ has the added bonus of being a history and a geography teacher). They’re both fun and have been helpful.
Totally agree! some computer games are very helpful. I have a game of Tetris after I have done a block of writing. It refreshes my brain after concentrating for a (relatively) long time.