New Study Links Video Games to Cognitive Gains and Exercise to Mental Health Benefits

A recent large-scale study has revealed that playing video games can significantly improve cognitive abilities, while regular exercise contributes positively to mental health, though the two activities don't appear to impact the other’s domain. This research, known as the Brain and Body study, is a collaboration between Western University and the Science and Industry Museum, undertaken as part of the Manchester Science Festival.

The study involved over 2,000 participants worldwide who completed a lifestyle survey before playing Creyos online brain games. These games assessed various aspects of cognitive function, including memory, attention, reasoning, and verbal skills. Led by Dr. Adrian Owen, a professor of Cognitive Neuroscience and Imaging at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry at Western University, the study revealed noteworthy findings from around 1,000 participants who completed all tests. The study found that video gaming positively influenced cognitive performance without impacting mental health, whereas regular physical activity was linked to improved mental health but not to changes in cognitive function.

Cognitive Benefits of Gaming and Mental Health Gains from Exercise

“Playing video games was associated with improved cognitive abilities but not better or worse mental health, whereas more physical activity was associated with improved mental health but not better or worse cognitive health,” said Dr. Owen, also a researcher at Western’s Centre for Brain and Mind.

Participants who engaged frequently in video gaming—five or more hours weekly for a single type of game—demonstrated cognitive performance similar to people who were 13.7 years younger. In contrast, those who played less than five hours weekly across various games showed cognitive abilities similar to people 5.2 years younger. These findings suggest that dedicated video game engagement could yield considerable cognitive advantages as people age.

On the other hand, participants who adhered to the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of over 150 minutes of weekly physical activity had a 12 percent higher likelihood of reporting no depression symptoms and a 9 percent increased likelihood of experiencing no anxiety symptoms. The results indicate that physical exercise is particularly beneficial for those with mild to moderate symptoms, enhancing well-being without necessarily addressing severe depression or anxiety cases.

Understanding the Brain-Body Link

This study highlights aspects of the brain-body connection that remain elusive despite well-known examples such as stress-induced muscle tension or the calming effect of steady breathing. The Brain and Body study provides insights into how lifestyle choices may influence brain health over time, offering valuable data for cognitive aging research.

The Western team’s survey data support the theory that different activities contribute to distinct aspects of well-being, potentially guiding people in lifestyle decisions to support brain and mental health as they age. Owen emphasizes the potential applications of these findings, stating, “The results of this study could help all of us choose activities that promote healthy cognitive aging.”

As part of the Manchester Science Festival, Dr. Owen presented these findings on October 19 at the Science and Industry Museum, giving attendees insights into the long-term effects of exercise and video gaming on cognition and mental health. Additionally, festival-goers were invited to participate in a follow-up pilot study to examine how exercise and gaming may yield immediate cognitive benefits.

While the Brain and Body study examined long-term impacts, this new pilot study will assess whether engaging in short-term exercise or gaming can also bring about measurable cognitive improvements. Through this work, researchers hope to deepen the understanding of the brain-body relationship and expand options for enhancing mental and cognitive health.

The findings underscore the value of tailoring activities to specific health goals, supporting video gaming as a tool for cognitive upkeep and physical activity as a mental health boost. By delineating the effects of exercise and gaming on distinct health dimensions, this research could pave the way for more targeted lifestyle choices and interventions.

Reference:

1. “Study Shows Playing Video Games May Improve Cognitive Performance.” Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry - Western University. Accessed October 30, 2024. https://www.schulich.uwo.ca/about/news/2024/october/study_shows_playing_video_games_may_improve_cognitive_performance.html.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)