Keeping your mind active and stimulated is one of the best things you can do for your long-term well-being.

Research shows that staying mentally engaged, whether through learning a new language, picking up an instrument or solving puzzles, is associated with better cognitive health and a lower risk of memory-related conditions like Alzheimer's.

Many residents at communities managed by The Goodman Group enjoy taking part in Fit Minds, a program dedicated to keeping senior minds sharp through a variety of exercises. Fit Minds was developed to help individuals stay mentally sharp at all stages of life. 

Technology has made brain fitness more accessible than ever. Regular use of digital technology is associated with a 58% lower risk of cognitive decline in older adults, on par with the protective benefits of exercise and brain games.

If you are exploring these tools on your own or alongside a loved one, these apps are a great place to start.

Brain Training Apps

1. Lumosity

One of the most recognized names in brain training, Lumosity has built a following of more than 110 million users since launching. It draws on cognitive science to design its activities and collaborates with researchers at more than 40 universities worldwide.

Lumosity boasts more than 40+ different games designed to help people with memory, attention, language and problem-solving. The free version includes three games daily, and a premium subscription unlocks the full library ($11.99/month or $59.99/year).

2. BrainHQ

If research-backed is important to you, BrainHQ is a great option. It has more independent studies behind it than most apps in this space, and the results are encouraging: regular use has been linked to a lower risk of dementia and improved memory function even in older adults.

One free daily exercise is included to get you started. Full access is $13.99/month or $94.99/year, and some insurance plans cover it.

3. Staying Sharp

Staying Sharp is an optional member benefit for members of AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired People). It provides a comprehensive brain health assessment, interactive challengesand a library of videos on important cognitive wellness topics such as mindfulness. 

There is a free mode and a subscription option. If you do pay, there are almost unlimited options for games and exercises. Some users find that upgrading to a subscription unlocks even more of what the app has to offer. An annual subscription is $60.

4. CogniFit Brain Games

CogniFit purports to offer the benefits of brain training in as little as 10 minutes a day. It has been used by about 4.6 million people worldwide and provides the tools to create your own personalized cognitive health plan. Family accounts are available so seniors can be connected with their families regardless of where they live.

CogniFit has games designed to focus on these brain functions: memory, perception, reasoning, coordination and attention. The games adapt with you, so they get harder as you get better at them. 

Subscription plans start at $19.99/month, with family plan options available. A free trial is included so you can explore the app before committing.

5. Peak

Described as engaging and personalized, Peak is a highly popular, dual-platform app available on both iPhone and Android. Focus, memory, problem-solving and mental agility are just a few of the skill areas you can test and train. 

The Pro version includes more than 40 games. Subscriptions are available monthly or annually, with annual plans offering the best value at around $34.99/year.

6. Elevate

Last but not least, Elevate is an intuitive brain training app with a focus on practical, everyday skills. It has one of the largest collections of brain training games of any app and adjusts to a user as they play. Writing, speaking, reading, math and memory are some of the concentration areas. Elevate is free to download and requires a $40/year subscription.

Keeping your mind sharp does not have to feel like work. 

These apps make it easy to build a small daily habit that pays off in big ways over time. Before starting any new wellness routine, a quick check-in with your physician is always a good idea.