Brain Training for Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Brain training has been used for many purposes from sharpening up our minds and memory to teaching children and adults better ways of learning. However, one very important purpose of brain training recently has been as a helping aid for Multiple Sclerosis patients.

One of the most common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is cognitive dysfunction, leading to difficulty with learning, paying attention, problem solving, remembering and correct use of language when expressing ideas. The most common symptoms and characteristics of MS include memory dysfunction, verbal fluency, cognitive fatigue and impaired planning ability.

Different methods of braining have been very successful in improving cognitive functions. Studies have indicated that MS patient showed remarkable improvement is several important cognitive skills after using brain training software. The highest improvement was in memory skills, which improved by twenty-one percent. Verbal auditory working memory and visual working memory came in second with an improvement of twenty percent. Other skill areas that showed improvement included focus, speed of object recall, visuo motor attention, naming speed and visual spatial working memory.

If braining training software and games can be so beneficial in MS patients, imagine what it can do for the memory and brainpower of the average individual. Patients of MS do not have to buy or use brain training software to provide their brain with some work to do.

Here are some simple things they can do in the comfort of their home or when out.

Keep your home in a manner that's familiar to you. Do not rearrange things where you're likely to forget. For instance, if you always keep your car keys on a hook by the front door, don't start keeping them some place new. Ask that all members of your family or household do this as well.

Use a journal, notebook or diary and keep track of everything. Regardless of how unimportant it may seem, write it down so it won't be forgotten. Make lists of everything that needs to be done, calendars for all important appointments and dates and notes for things that need to be remembered.

When you're communicating with others, ask that they keep their instructions and directions simple so they'll be easier for you to remember. Make sure you're given these instructions in a quiet place free of distractions.

Get involved with doing puzzles on a regular basis. They're not only a lot of fun but are a great form of brain training.