The risk of cognitive decline increases with age, with roughly half of Americans expected to experience some form of memory or thinking skill worsening after 55. In response, The Bristal at York Avenue, an assisted living community on Manhattan's Upper East Side, has introduced BrainFit, a novel brain workout system designed to keep residents' minds sharp.
The BrainFit system utilizes gamified, arcade-style targets to train cognitive functions such as memory, coordination, and decision-making. Resembling a large interactive wall with flashing LED lights, the system prompts participants to hit illuminated targets by using drumstick-like controllers. This approach engages pattern recognition, reaction time, hand-eye coordination, and agility.
Residents can play various games that focus on memory matching, pattern recognition, sequencing activities, balance and agility exercises, dual-tasking challenges, and even team competitions. The intensity can be adjusted, and participants can choose to play while standing, sitting, or using mobility aids like walkers.
Richard Stapen, a 78-year-old resident, was one of the first to use the technology. He described the machine as a fun way to engage his competitive side and noted its nostalgic appeal, likening the experience to playing the drums in his youth. Stapen has been using the system twice a week for about 30 minutes per session for the past six months. "I think I’m a little sharper," he said. "It’s hard to really judge, but I know I enjoy it more than when I first started to use it and I’m certainly no worse off."
Mary-Ann Caws, 93, was initially drawn to the program to improve her strength and reflexes but found she was gaining more. "It’s a fun way to do both," she stated. "You forget that it’s actually helping you because the games are so fun, it doesn’t feel like exercise." Caws, who currently participates once a month, is eager to increase her engagement, citing a strong sense of accomplishment after each session.
Dr. Rob Winningham, who has consulted on specialized BrainFit Gyms in senior living facilities, highlighted the importance of physical exercise in improving cognitive abilities in older adults. He emphasized that dual tasking—simultaneously engaging in cognitive and physical activity—is particularly beneficial. "Dual tasking might be the most effective way to help older adults experiencing earlier stages of cognitive impairment experience meaningful improvements to their cognitive, memory abilities and overall quality of life," Winningham explained.
Engaging in cognitive and physical exercise two to three times a week for 30 minutes can stimulate the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the formation of new memories and the ability to perform daily tasks independently. SMARTfit's dual-task training has also shown to enhance executive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the stage between normal aging and dementia.
While BrainFit can benefit individuals of all ages, its effectiveness may differ for those with mid- to late-stage dementia. However, Winningham suggested that it could still help improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls, which is a significant concern for individuals with cognitive decline.
Stapen, who also participates in other activities at The Bristal, hopes to increase his BrainFit sessions and has recommended the program to his friends, stating, "It can only help, and it’s a lot of fun."