Playing 3D video games would be effective in training the brain and especially memory. These conclusions of an American study published on December 9 in “The Journal of Neuroscience“could help the elderly or people with dementia such as Alzheimer’s diseasefor example.
Many cognitive functions mobilized with 2D and 3D games
Dr Craig Stark from the University of California (USA) and Dr Dane Clemenson from the Neurobiology Center for Learning and Memory (Denmark) formed two groups of students: one playing a video game in 2D (Angry Birds) and a second practicing a 3D game (Super Mario 3D World). The youngsters had to exercise for 30 minutes a day for two weeks.
Why this choice of games? They immerse the person in a universe that mobilizes many cognitive functions (visual, spatial, emotional…). “This wealth of information could lead to improved cognitive function,” says Dr. Craig Stark.
Improved memory testing by 12%
Before and after the experiment, the volunteers took tests involving their hippocampus, an area of the brain linked to learning and memory. “This function declines with age, which is why it’s so difficult to learn new names or find where you left your keys,” says Dr Craig.
The results of the study are very encouraging: the group of students who experimented with 3D games improved their memory test score by 12%. which corresponds to the loss of abilities after 45 years.
Complexity improves memory
“3D games have a lot more spatial information to explore. They are much more complex, with a lot more information to integrate. In any case, we know that this type oflearning and memory not only stimulates the hippocampus but it requires it”, specifies the researcher.
Research continues for the team of neurobiologists with the exploration of the natural environment. Scientists now want to know if lived experiences could reverse the process of cognitive decline, thus restoring the memory to the elderly.
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