Conclusion

“Conclusion: The Case for Brain Training” explores the relative merits and shortcomings of behavioral exercises to preserve, enhance, and restore mental function. It provides the available data and allows the reader to form an educated opinion regarding the present state of affairs and how available interventions may help different crowds.

From Theory to Practice

“From Theory to Practice: Contextualizing Brain Training” provides the backdrop to the field of brain training. From the pressures of competitive society to diagnostic labeling and the allure of commercialization, a number of chronological progressions shaped and facilitated the emergence of modern brain training practices today. This chapter delivers a brief historical background describing the challenges and conflicts surrounding brain research and medical practice, and uses mental health as a case study.

Rehabilitating and (Re-)Training the Injured Brain

“Rehabilitating and (Re-)Training the Injured Brain” features approaches to brain training that aim to rehabilitate or remediate cognitive functions in acquired brain injury. It looks at the different approaches based on the type of injury and any additional benefits that may occur. The chapter sketches out methods to restore typical function by activating or stimulating relevant neural networks. Such techniques may help to overcome challenges related to rehabilitation using tools such as neural imaging and non-invasive stimulation. The focus of this chapter is on scientific research and empirical findings, but historical and cultural contexts that shroud these technological and clinical developments are also highlighted.

Training the Aging Brain

“Training the Aging Brain: Is Cognitive Decline Inevitable?” asks whether cognitive decline necessarily occurs as we age. The answer to this question depends on perspective. To this end, this chapter presents the impressions of a few leading experts along with the latest scientific insights on training and preserving function in the senescent brain. It concludes with a summary of the factors that experts agree play a role in the conundrum of whether cognitive decline accompanies age.

Are You Paying Attention?

“Are you paying attention” addresses the topic of maintaining focus on tasks. The chapter defines attention, offering a solid understanding of the cognitive functions that are often taken for granted. It looks at the idea that multitasking compromises our attention capacity, citing John Ratey of Harvard University, who refers to this craving for stimulation as “acquired attention deficit disorder.” This chapter also addresses clinical impairments in attention and how brain training can make the difference between frustration and accomplishment at work, or peer-rejection and social triumph.

Mental and Neurological Remediation

“Mental and Neurological Remediation” outlines some of the emerging approaches to easing the symptoms of developmental conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Tourette’s syndrome, as well as disorders that tend to occur later in life, from depression and bipolar disorder to schizophrenia and substance abuse. It goes on to discuss the emergence of brain training in mental health—including concerns pertaining to medication as a primary treatment option, particularly in children.

Should We Brain-Train in School?

“Should We Brain-Train in School” highlights current efforts to disseminate training programs and examines whether these should be incorporated into educational curricula. It addresses both sides of the argument, looking at studies that validate certain training programs, supporting their impact on both children and adults. It also acknowledges that many claims made by researchers extend beyond realistic expectations and addresses the topic of neuroplasticity in relation to brain training.

Introduction

This introductory chapter discusses the ability to improve cognitive performance through deliberate training. It compares brain training to physical training, looking at highly commercialized brain-training programs, including computer games, that target attention and working memory. It also discusses a variety of non-commercial methods, including neural imaging procedures, contemplative techniques, and lifestyle-related practices. It looks at who can benefit from brain training, including the elderly and those suffering from mental illness.