Brain games, crossword puzzles and mathematical puzzles such as Sudoku are often promoted as ways to strengthen memory. However, neurologists warn that these general exercises may not address the underlying cause of “brain fog,” or mental cloudiness.
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In this regard, Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, a professor of neurology at the University of California, told the US-based Fox News Network that mental exercises are only beneficial when they target the specific cognitive function that a person is struggling with.
“You cannot do random cognitive exercises; they must be tailored to a specific problem,” she added.
She explained that brain fog, which can impair the ability to recall words, requires language-based exercises. “Solving mathematical problems will not help. You need exercises that help you retrieve words,” she noted.
According to Voskuhl, brain fog, particularly when associated with hormonal changes in midlife during perimenopause and menopause, affects very specific areas of the brain.
Experts explain that when estrogen levels decline, general intellectual abilities and logical reasoning remain largely intact. However, the brain is affected in two key areas: verbal memory, which involves recalling names and words, and processing speed, or the ability to think quickly under pressure.
Consequently, games such as Sudoku and other number-based puzzles that primarily focus on logic and mathematical skills may not help address difficulties with word retrieval.
Voskuhl stressed that the issue does not involve a general brain malfunction or widespread brain atrophy. However, MRI scans and scientific research findings indicate atrophy in the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for memory. Changes may occur in its structure or in the functional connections between its cells.
Simple exercises to improve word recall
Voskuhl believes that effective training should focus on retrieving words quickly rather than simply recalling information without a time limit.
“It is primarily about processing speed; therefore, you need an exercise that makes you race against the clock and complete it quickly,” she said.
Exercises targeting these skills include:
The 60-second word challenge: Set a timer for one minute and try to name as many words as possible belonging to a specific category, such as animals or foods.
Speed reading and summarizing: Read a short article quickly, then immediately summarize it aloud in two or three sentences.
Rapid recall practice: Use cards featuring pictures of objects or people and try to name them as quickly as possible without pausing for too long to think.
These exercises aim to combine word retrieval with faster responses, rather than relying on brain games that do not target the specific difficulty a person is experiencing.
Nevertheless, these exercises have not been proven to treat all causes of brain fog. Moreover, improved performance in a particular game does not necessarily mean that memory has improved in everyday life. If memory difficulties are new, persistent or worsening, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the cause.
