Improve Memory and Focus

How I discovered this benefit

I’m a long-time player of computer games.  I started out with the match-3 games because they were fun and required strategy to reach each level.  I still play them occasionally when I don’t want to work very hard on focus.  I did notice that it became easier to recognize patterns.  Not a bad deal!

Games that provide the best work-outs

I love hidden object games. I play other computer games occasionally, as long as they require using my mind to formulate strategy or exercise my memory. Hidden object games, however, exercise all my faculties: hand/eye coordination, strategic planning, focus, concentration, memory — all the good stuff that keeps my brain and mind healthy.

Early hidden object games were a bit confusing and frustrating at first. The main difficulty was recognizing the object I had to find. Pretty soon, I became accustomed to the standard format of these games and I was hooked.

Recently the hidden object format has evolved to include mini- and bonus games, which change the pace to include varied challenges. Adding these activities increases enjoyment and the length of game play.

My current game groove

I recently purchased a Nancy Drew – Dossier hidden object game called Resorting to Death. It became a particularly enjoyable experience because there were no lists of items to find or silhouettes to match. Instead there is dialogue offering background, sparkles to indicate an area to explore, and clues to figure out the next step or action. The areas pop out an image and riddle when clicked and you then have to find a matching or completing action.

My recommendation

Multiple internet sites offer free trials and online game purchase.  Most sites are very active; launching new games each week.  The variety available should appeal to individuals’ taste.  There is an old saying ‘use it or lose it’. I believe that applies to the brain and memory as well. Frequent and focused exercise keeps both sharp and delays deterioration of brain cells and memory. All this and fun, too? What’s not to like?