The Effect of Computer Games on Improving Working Memory, Visual Memory, and Control of Executive Functions amongst the Elderly in Tehran

Abstract

Introduction & purpose: Cognitive ability decline is among the age-related changes in the elderly. Recent research has shown that computer games has a positive effect on cognitive abilities. Accordingly, the present study aimed at determining the effect of computer games on improving working memory, visual memory, and executive functions amongst the elderly in the city of Tehran. Methodology: The present study had a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with the control group that was carried out on 40 elderly people selected using targeted sampling method in Tehran. The participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental or the control group after reviewing the inclusion criteria and clinical interview by the researchers. The experimental group was asked to play a one-hour computer game of Lumosity during 15 sessions and the control group was not allowed to play any computer games during this time. The data were collected in two stages of pre-test and post-test. Finally, the collected data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 25. Findings: Computer games had a significant effect on the improvement of working memory, visual memory, and executive functions amongst the elderly in the experimental group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Discussion and Conclusion: Computer games can be helpful to improve memory and cognitive functions amongst the elderly. Accordingly, it is recommended to use these games in nursing homes for elderly people and the related centers should use these games to rehabilitate the elderly.