You Can Stop Your Brain Drain

November 5, 2025 — Some days it seems like we can’t remember anything. But we don’t have to see our memory and learning ability decline. Recent research from a McGill University-led clinical trial shows that online brain training exercises can improve brain networks affecting learning and memory. The study found 10 weeks’ use of the game-like app BrainHQ by older adults enhanced cholinergic function, a chemical system in the brain that typically declines with age and influences attention, memory and decision-making.

10 Years Younger!

“The training restored cholinergic health to levels typically seen in someone 10 years younger,” said senior author Dr. Etienne de Villers-Sidani, an Associate Professor in McGill’s Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery.

Evidence-backed brain game

BrainHQ is one of many brain games that can help improve your memory (see bottom for more). It offers speed-based exercises that become progressively more challenging and attention-demanding, shown to be effective in hundreds of studies. It’s free and pretty interesting. The test exercise we took was very similar to the Matching Game on Caribu that we play online with our grandchildren.

“A lot of people assume crossword puzzles or reading are enough to keep the brain sharp. But not all activities truly promote neuroplasticity,” said de Villers-Sidani.

Other Games and Exercises for Your Brain

Here are some things to do that can stretch your brain and improve your memory. One way to look at these is, if it hurts your brain to do them – they are probably good for you!

Learn a language. It’s not easy to learn a new language with all of their new vocabulary and grammar rules. That’s why it’s good for your brain. There are all kinds of language apps you can try for daily doses of French, Italian, Japanese …. whatever language interests you.

Jigsaw puzzles. These stimulate multiple brain regions simultaneously. Besides a feeling of accomplishment, they work on neuro spatial development. It doesn’t have to be 1,000-piece puzzle to challenge perception and problem-solving skills.

Card games. Bridge, poker, spades, or hearts are games that sharpen thinking through strategic planning, decision-making, and memory. Research shows they improve attention, ability to focus, memory, and verbal fluency.

Vocabulary. Adding a word a day helps stimulate various brain areas. You can subscribe to a Word A Day email, or take the time to look up a word you come across that you aren’t sure about. Use the new word five times to help it set in your brain.

Dancing. Here you get a combination of physical movement with a mental challenge. As I can attest, it requires coordination and hard work to remember those steps. Besides the mental pluses, there are cardiovascular benefits.

Learn a new skill.  Take up something new, whether it is painting, playing an instrument, or computer skills. New hobbies help build stronger neural connections.

Entertainment vs. Mental Challenges

The type of mental activity is important. To effectively improve your memory, structured cognitive training is needed. Casual games are entertaining, but to get the full benefit of memory enhancement, strenuous exercise of the brain is called for. Research suggests that dedicating just 30 minutes daily to targeted mental exercises could help maintain or even improve cognitive function as we age.

Some Brain Games to Try

(Special thanks for Caring Sunshine’s excellent newsletter for compiling most of this list). Maybe you have some of your own favorites.

Structured Brain Training (Most Effective per Study)
BrainHQ – The actual program used in the study; offers limited free exercises daily
Lumosity – Free version includes 3 games/day with cognitive tracking
CogniFit – Free brain training games with scientific backing

Card Games
Bridgebase.com – Play solitaire, with friends, or join a group just looking for a game.
247 Games – Solitaire, bridge, hearts, and more
World of Card Games – Multiplayer card games including bridge

Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw Planet – Thousands of free puzzles, adjustable difficulty
The Jigsaw Puzzles – Daily new puzzles, 6-247 pieces
JS Puzzles – No registration required, various difficulties

Vocabulary Building
Vocabulary.com – Adaptive learning system, game-like interface
Worddaily.com – A new word every day – most will be new to you.
Words with Friends – Social word game for vocabulary

Mixed Cognitive Challenges
AARP Games – Free games specifically designed for seniors
HappyNeuron – Free brain games with scientific approach
BrainCurls – Puzzles, logic games, and brain teasers

Memory-Specific Games
Memozor – Memory matching games, various themes
Online Simon – Classic Simon memory game online
Memory Games at Pogo – Memory matching games

Mobile Language Apps (Free Versions)

Italian.JoyofLanguage. We love this app and the sunny, funny couple that does it.

Languatalk Slow French. It is amazing how much more you seem to be able to learn when you just slow things down a little bit.
Duolingo – Language learning (new skill acquisition)

Comments? How is your brain doing? Are you unable to remember things, or to process more complex mental problems? If so, what are you doing to try to stem the tide and hang on to those remaining brain cells.