How Cognitive Assessment And Training Devices Can Improve Mental Health For The Young And Old

Though degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s are still being intensely researched to discover the causes and possible cures, early prevention and detection is key to reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases and perhaps slow down the rate of any cognitive decline. However, cognitive training is not only for those approaching old age or exhibiting symptoms of cognitive decline, young children also need to have their brains stimulated for better mental well-being and to improve learning capabilities. In this blog, we will look at how cognitive assessment and training devices can improve mental health for the young and old.

How cognitive assessment and training devices work

Cognitive assessment and training devices come in various forms, such as wearable sensors such as ExBrain, projection systems, or virtual reality systems, but they all share the same fundamental idea – to stimulate the brain and encourage users to think, remember and focus. Below are some great examples of cutting-edge cognitive assessment and training devices available today, designed for both older and younger users.

ExBrain

ExBrain, developed by NeU Corporation in Japan, is the world’s smallest and lightest brain activity sensor. Using near-infrared technology, it provides a visualisation of brain activity, allowing users to activate their cognitive functions in specific parts of the brain as they perform drills, quizzes, puzzles or reading on the associated mobile app, Brain Meter. The activities can be customized to each user depending on their ability and age.

For elderly users, ExBrain helps with early detection of cognitive decline and assists in monitoring changes over time. It improves the management of mental health conditions and neurodegenerative diseases with tailored content based on the assessment results. These targeted activities boost quick thinking, memory and focus, and enhance the quality of life of users while also reducing the number of therapist visits needed.

For younger users, the device also works to boost short-term memory, study efficiency and capability. It is easy to use, anytime, anywhere, and the compelling drills, quizzes and puzzles can be customised to individual learning needs. In a two-month trial conduction in Japan with 33 students preparing for junior high and high school entrance exams, the use of ExBrain to “warm up” the brain before studying saw 82% of students improving their grades, with 27% achieving an increase of 10 or more points in mock exams.

* for trial case result sourced from Neu Corporation.

Obie Interactive Projector

The Obie Interactive Projector is essentially a gaming console specifically designed for cognitive training. It projects onto any surface and has built-in speakers, but unlike conventional projectors, it allows users to touch and interact with the projected images to engage the brain, improve hand-eye coordination, and encourage movement and social interaction.

Obie is a powerful cognitive training tool ideally suited to the elderly and young children. It provides a variety of fun, engaging and educational experiences which can be tailored to individual cognitive ability and needs. It is perfect for use both in elderly care home environments and classrooms. See it in action below:

Learn more about GF Technovation’s cognitive assessment and training solutions

GF Technovation is committed to developing cutting-edge cognitive training tools to improve the quality of life and mental health of both the young and old. It is important that care homes and schools embrace new technologies which can help both in the fight against the progression neurodegenerative diseases in the elderly, and stimulate young minds, laying the groundwork for good cognitive development as they grow up. To learn more about GF Technovation’s cognitive assessment and training solutions, click here.