The Integration of Neurofeedback and Short-Term Memory Games: Enhancing Cognitive Therapy Outcomes
The Integration of Neurofeedback and Short-Term Memory Games: Enhancing Cognitive Therapy Outcomes
Volume 10, Issue 1, January – 2025 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14716974
The Integration of Neurofeedback and Short-Term
Memory Games: Enhancing Cognitive
Therapy Outcomes
Samera Sabbagh
Abstract:- Neurofeedback and short-term memory The complementary nature of these methods suggests
games have each demonstrated notable efficacy in the potential for a synergistic effect: while neurofeedback
enhancing cognitive functions such as memory retention, targets neural regulation and brainwave optimization,
attention span, and overall brain performance. Despite memory games actively engage cognitive processes,
their individual benefits, the integration of these methods potentially reinforcing neuroplasticity.
as a cohesive therapeutic strategy remains
This paper seeks to explore the feasibility and efficacy
underexplored. This study investigates the synergistic
of combining neurofeedback and short-term memory games
potential of combining neurofeedback and short-term as a unified therapeutic strategy. By examining cognitive
memory games in addressing cognitive impairments. improvements among participants undergoing the combined
Fifty participants diagnosed with attention deficits, mild intervention compared to neurofeedback-only therapy, this
cognitive impairment, or recovering from traumatic study aims to highlight the benefits and clinical implications
brain injuries were enrolled and divided into two groups: of this novel approach. Through rigorous assessment using
one receiving neurofeedback-only therapy and another standardized cognitive tests and EEG metrics, we aim to
undergoing a combined intervention. Over eight weeks, contribute to the growing body of research on innovative
the combined therapy group exhibited significantly methods for cognitive rehabilitation and enhancement.
greater improvements in cognitive performance,
including a 35% increase in memory retention, enhanced II. METHODS
attention span, and elevated neuroplasticity indicators.
Participants:
These findings suggest that combining neurofeedback
This study involved 50 participants aged 18–65
and memory games offers a novel, effective, and diagnosed with attention deficits, mild cognitive
engaging approach to cognitive therapy, with promising impairment, or recovering from traumatic brain injuries.
implications for treating ADHD, early-stage Alzheimer’s, Participants were divided into two groups: one undergoing
and post-traumatic recovery. neurofeedback-only therapy and another receiving the
combined therapy.
I. INTRODUCTION
Intervention Design:
Cognitive impairments, ranging from attention deficits The intervention lasted eight weeks, with three 45-
to memory dysfunction, pose significant challenges to minute sessions per week. During each session, participants
individuals and healthcare systems alike. Effective in the combined therapy group:
interventions are essential to address these challenges and
improve quality of life. Neurofeedback, which leverages Engaged in neurofeedback training using EEG to
real-time EEG data to train individuals to regulate monitor and regulate brainwave patterns associated with
brainwave activity, has gained recognition as a non-invasive focus and memory.
and personalized therapeutic tool. Concurrently, short-term Played short-term memory games specifically designed
memory games, known for their ability to enhance working to challenge working memory, such as sequence recall
memory and attention, have long been used to bolster tasks, spatial memory puzzles, and rapid categorization
cognitive abilities in diverse populations. challenges.
Despite their proven individual effectiveness, the Measurement Tools
integration of neurofeedback and short-term memory games Cognitive improvements were assessed using
remains largely unexplored in clinical and research contexts. standardized tools, including the Wechsler Memory Scale
(WMS) and Trail Making Test (TMT). Baseline
measurements were compared to post-intervention scores.
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Volume 10, Issue 1, January – 2025 International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology
ISSN No:-2456-2165 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14716974
III. RESULTS REFERENCES
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IV. DISCUSSION
The results affirm the hypothesis that integrating
neurofeedback and short-term memory games can
synergistically enhance cognitive therapy outcomes.
Neurofeedback’s ability to train brainwave regulation
complements the active engagement required by memory
games, fostering neuroplasticity and cognitive resilience.
Clinical Implications:
This approach has significant potential in treating
conditions such as ADHD, early-stage Alzheimer’s, and
post-traumatic recovery. It also opens avenues for non-
invasive, personalized therapy protocols adaptable to
various age groups and cognitive conditions.
Limitations and Future Research:
While the results are promising, the study’s limited
sample size and short duration warrant further investigation.
Future research should explore long-term effects, the impact
of game design variations, and potential applications in
other cognitive domains.
V. CONCLUSION
The integration of neurofeedback and short-term
memory games represents a ground-breaking advance in
cognitive therapy. By combining the strengths of both
methods, this approach not only enhances memory and
attention but also lays the groundwork for more effective
and engaging therapeutic practices. Further exploration and
refinement could establish this technique as a cornerstone of
neuro-cognitive rehabilitation.
