Now, in just five minutes, you can gain valuable insights into your cognitive performance, including mental processing speed, short-term memory, and attention-switching capabilities. Take Thinkie's online Brain Age Check-up and explore how your cognitive abilities measure up.
Dr. Ryuta Kawashima, a renowned Japanese neuroscientist,medical doctor, and advisor to Thinkie, is widely recognized for his research on brain plasticity and the creation of brain training exercises popularized by the "Brain Age" video game series. Dr. Kawashima’s research suggests that simple cognitive tasks like reading aloud and performing basic arithmetic can stimulate the prefrontal cortex, a crucial brain region responsible for memory, attention, reasoning, and executive function.
How Thinkie Brain Training Works
Thinkie's exercises are inspired by Dr. Kawashima’s methods and target the prefrontal cortex, an area known to experience changes with age, typically starting in early adulthood.1 These simple but engaging exercises aim to activate the prefrontal cortex more effectively than passive activities.
Types of Exercises2
- Reading aloud: activates language and frontal brain regions
- Simple arithmetic: engages both hemispheres and frontal cortex
- Memory games and N-back tasks: challenges working memory
- Stroop tests: encourages cognitive control and mental flexibility
The Science Behind Brain Training
Using brain imaging techniques like optical topography and MRI, Dr. Kawashima’s studies have indicated that consistent practice of these exercises can increase activity and blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.2
These tasks are intentionally simple but require rapid processing and working memory, which research shows activates the prefrontal cortex more effectively than passive or complex tasks.3
Scientific Research and Findings
Studies involving older adults have shown promising outcomes from regular engagement in these cognitive exercises. Participants have demonstrated improvements in specific cognitive tasks, such as memory and attention. Some research participants have also reported enhanced mood and daily functioning. A 2015 study observed cognitive training's potential in helping older adults maintain cognitive function, particularly through tasks engaging the prefrontal cortex.4
While these findings are encouraging, it's important to note that the scientific community continues to explore and debate the extent of brain training benefits. Some researchers highlight that improvements may be task-specific, while others have found broader cognitive benefits, particularly in older adults.5
Thinkie pairs traditional cognitive exercises with neurofeedback technology, allowing users to see their brain activity in real time through the Thinkie headband, which utilizes NIRS (Near-Infrared Spectroscopy). This innovative approach enables users to visualize their brain's response and potentially enhance their training experience.
Your brain's capacity to change and adapt -- known as neuroplasticity -- exists throughout your life, meaning it's never too late to engage in cognitive activities.6
Curious about your own cognitive abilities? Discover your Brain Age today with Thinkie’s Brain Age Check-up and start your journey toward better cognitive awareness.
1 Dr. Kawashima's Brain Training: How Old is Your Brain?
2 Iwata Asks - Brain Age: Concentration Training - Volume 1 - Nintendo
3 Prefrontal cortical plasticity during learning of cognitive tasks