Enhancing Cognitive Function in Dementia Patients Through Computer Gaming

Recent research conducted by the University of Alberta suggests that computer games have the potential to improve cognitive engagement in individuals living with dementia. The study introduces an innovative way to measure how actively engaged these individuals are during gameplay—an important factor for the effectiveness of cognitive interventions. Traditionally, engagement levels are assessed through questionnaires like the game engagement questionnaire or flow state scales, which can be challenging for people with cognitive impairments to complete. To overcome this, the researchers employed electroencephalography (EEG) technology to monitor brain activity in real time, providing a more objective measure of engagement.

Dr. Adriana Ríos Rincón, an associate professor in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, emphasized the importance of finding alternative treatments as the global dementia risk rises with longer lifespans. With nearly a million Canadians projected to have dementia by 2030, developing effective, engaging therapies is urgent. While digital games appear promising, maintaining sustained engagement remains challenging for those with cognitive decline.

The team conducted a study involving both younger and older adults, who played a specially designed stunt plane game that targeted cognitive processes such as attention and multitasking. Participants wore EEG headsets during gameplay to track brain waves—specifically theta, alpha, and beta waves—which reflect different levels of alertness and mental activity. The researchers found that optimal engagement occurred when the game’s difficulty was well matched to the player’s skill level—preventing boredom and discouragement.

Using this EEG data, the team developed a machine learning model that could classify engagement as high or low, achieving the most accuracy when combining multiple brainwave measures. This approach allows for an objective way to assess engagement, especially in individuals who might struggle with self-reporting.

Looking ahead, the researchers plan to adapt these methods for older adults living with dementia by creating adaptive games that adjust difficulty on the fly to keep users in the optimal engagement zone—sometimes called flow state. They also aim to explore whether improving engagement through gaming can translate into measurable cognitive and daily functioning enhancements, potentially leading to better independence and confidence in daily activities.

This innovative approach demonstrates a significant step toward personalized, technology-driven cognitive therapies for dementia. The study, titled "EEG-Based Engagement Monitoring in Cognitive Games," was published in the journal Sensors. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-games-cognitive-function-people-dementia.html