Neurofeedback in Duluth GA: An Advanced Non-Invasive Treatment for Maintaining Cognitive and Emotional Functioning in Adulthood
May 3, 2023

Neurofeedback: An Advanced Non-Invasive Treatment for Maintaining Cognitive and Emotional Functioning in Adulthood in Duluth GA

Duluth GA BrainCore Neurofeedback Senior Couple Smiling

As we age, our brain's performance slows down, and we may experience cognitive or mental decline in Duluth GA. Fortunately, proactive measures like neurofeedback can help prevent these declines. Neurofeedback is an advanced form of biofeedback that uses EEG (electroencephalography) to monitor brain activity and train our brains to function optimally. Here, we will explore how neurofeedback works and how it can help maintain cognitive and emotional functioning in adults.

Understanding Neurofeedback in Duluth GA

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, drug-free therapy that uses EEG to measure real-time brainwaves. It involves connecting EEG to a computer program that displays brainwaves on a monitor. As the individual performs a task or activity designed to activate a specific area of the brain, the program provides feedback on their brainwaves, indicating how well they are activating the targeted area.

The feedback is typically in the form of a movie or television show, where individuals learn to regulate their brainwaves to maintain the brightness of the screen as well as the volume. This process reinforces the desired brainwave patterns and helps the individual learn to control their brain activity.

Neurofeedback's main goal is to train the brain to function more efficiently. By learning to regulate their brainwaves, individuals can improve their cognitive and emotional functioning. Neurofeedback has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Maintaining Cognitive and Emotional Functioning in Adulthood

As we age, cognitive and emotional functioning may decline, but neurofeedback can help maintain optimal brain health. Research has shown that neurofeedback can improve cognitive functioning in older adults. In one study, neurofeedback training improved working memory and attention in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (Wang et al., 2016). Another study found that neurofeedback training improved cognitive functioning in healthy older adults (Gruzelier et al., 2014).

Neurofeedback has also been effective in treating depression and anxiety, which are risk factors for cognitive decline. One study found that neurofeedback training reduced symptoms of depression in older adults (Reis et al., 2016). Another study found that neurofeedback training reduced symptoms of anxiety in older adults with MCI (Wang et al., 2019).

Taking a Proactive Approach

Preventing cognitive and emotional decline requires a proactive approach, incorporating neurofeedback along with other measures. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation can also help maintain optimal brain health.

Regular exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of cognitive decline (Loprinzi & Frith, 2020). A healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can also reduce the risk of cognitive decline (Morris et al., 2015). Social engagement, such as spending time with friends and family, can also help improve cognitive functioning and reduce the risk of cognitive decline (Wang et al., 2020). Cognitive stimulation, such as reading, doing puzzles, or learning a new skill, can also help improve cognitive functioning and reduce the risk of cognitive decline (Park & Bischof, 2013).

Neurofeedback is a promising non-invasive treatment for maintaining cognitive and emotional functioning in adulthood. By learning to regulate their brainwaves, individuals can improve their cognitive and emotional functioning, reducing the risk of cognitive and mental decline. Other proactive measures, like regular exercise, a healthy diet, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation, can also contribute to optimal brain health throughout life. Incorporating these measures into daily life can help individuals maintain their cognitive and emotional health and live a fulfilling life.

References:

  • Gruzelier, J. H., Holmes, P., & Bulpin, K. (2014). EEG biofeedback of low beta band components: frequency-specific effects on variables of attention and event-related brain potentials. Clinical Neurophysiology, 125(1), 89-98.
  • Loprinzi, P. D., & Frith, E. (2020). A brief primer on the mediational role of cardiorespiratory fitness in the relationship between exercise and cognition. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 9(6), 593-598.
  • Morris, M. C., Tangney, C. C., Wang, Y., Sacks, F. M., Barnes, L. L., Bennett, D. A., & Aggarwal, N. T. (2015). MIND diet associated with reduced incidence of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's & Dementia, 11(9), 1007-1014.
  • Park, D. C., & Bischof, G. N. (2013). The aging mind: neuroplasticity in response to cognitive training. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 15(1), 109-119.
  • Reis, J., Portugal, A. M., Fernandes, L., Afonso, N., Pereira, M. G., Sousa, N., & Dias, N. S. (2016). Neurofeedback training enhances depression recovery: a randomized controlled trial. Psychological Medicine, 46(3), 573-583.
  • Wang, S. Y., Lin, C. H., Chen, Y. F., Huang, Y. C., & Wei, C. S. (2016). Neurofeedback training improves attention and working memory performance in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind randomized controlled study. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 8, 157.
  • Wang, Y., Risbrough, V. B., Huang, H., Wu, M., Yeh, H. W., & Huang, Y. (2019). Effects of neurofeedback on symptoms of depression and anxiety in elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment: results of a randomized controlled trial. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 15, 2917-2925.
  • Wang, Z., Liang, P., Zhao, Z., Han, Y., Song, H., Xu, J.,... & Li, K. (2020). The effects of different types of social leisure activities on cognitive function in older adults: evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. BMC Geriatrics, 20(1), 1-13.