Effect of Brain Training Games on the Cognitive Performance of Individuals with Cognitive Impairments: A Systematic Review

Abstract Brain training games utilise specific challenges and repetitive exercises for stimulating neural pathways and for promoting neuroplasticity. This study aims to synthesise the available studies for reflecting on the effectiveness of brain training games on the cognitive performance of individuals having cognitive impairments. A structured literature search strategy was carried out to identify the relevant studies through different databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed and Cochrane library. Based on pre-defined eligibility criteria, only high-quality RCTs were included within the review. After screening, a total of 11 studies were selected within the review. All studies have a low risk of bias on the ROB 2 tool. The results of the studies reported that cognitive brain training has a statistically significant ( P < 0.05) impact on the neuroplasticity and cognitive functions. The population under study was suffering from different cognitive impairments, and in each of the study, statistically significant ( P < 0.05) effects have been documented on the attention, memory, cognition, problem-solving skills and ADLs. The review concluded that brain training games have significantly enhanced the cognitive functions in individuals with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairments.