Unexpected Side Effect: Makes Y...(he study used a standard measure of depr...),Health

Date:3/17/2009

he study used a standard measure of depression known as the CES-D-12, a 12-item scale for depressive symptoms from the Center for Epidemiological Studies. Researchers found that only study participants who used the computer-based brain exercises received some protection against worsening depressive symptoms as compared against the control group. In fact, those who used the computer-based exercises were 30% less at risk than the other groups.

Researchers hypothesized two possible reasons why the brain exercise group was less susceptible to worsening depressive symptoms. First, they observed that the group had experienced an increase in brain processing speed and other quality of life measures that may have made their day to day experiences more positive. Second, they observed that the attentional demands and rewards and the procedural learning requirements of the computer program may have stimulated the chemical system or other parts of the brain that affect mood.

"Earlier findings have shown that these particular brain exercises improve speed of processing, health related quality of life and ability to engage in activities required for independent living," said Fred Wolinsky, PhD of the University of Iowa, the lead author on this study. "This study is important because it shows that a relatively small amount of the right kind of brain fitness training can change the trajectory of aging, even five years later, by helping people experience a happier life. In the end, that's really what we all want for ourselves and our loved ones."

The training used in the study is now commercially available for the first time as part of the InSight brain fitness program from Posit Science. Posit Science distributes its programs to the public through its website, through national insurers and through hundreds of classes at retirement communities, senior centers and adult education programs.

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