Making a general conclusion about brain training for ADHD is like making a general conclusion about medications for ADHD. “It is important to examine the claims and evidence of specific applications. “Brain training is an umbrella term that accompanies so many different applications that generalized conclusions about its value for ADHD are essentially meaningless,” says David Rabiner, Ph.D. (Some ADHD experts, like Sandy Newmark, M.D., don’t consider neurofeedback to be a type of brain training.) Each of these can be done in an office with a professional, or at home, with or without a trained clinician. When we talk about it in terms of ADHD, however, we’re typically referring to one of two things: neurofeedback or cognitive training.

How Does Brain Training Apply to ADHD?īrain training can mean a lot of things. Brain training is based on the idea of “ neuroplasticity,” a relatively recent theory that suggests that the brain is malleable, and can be changed by experience (for better or for worse) at any age. “Brain training” covers a vast and diverse range of solutions, programs, exercises, and tools meant to strengthen the brain - either by changing its structure, altering brain waves, or improving specific brain-based skills. These days brain training is in the mainstream and has become a part of ADHD treatment plans - through at-home apps, in-office neurofeedback programs, and everything in between - claiming to improve attention, lower impulsivity, or boost brain-based skills, like processing speed or working memory.īut what do these tools do, and do they have a measurable impact on attention deficit disorder ( ADHD or ADD) symptoms? Let’s dive into what brain training comprises, and what you or your child can expect from its applications. Search “Brain Training” and you’ll find countless apps, games, and tools promising to make you smarter, slow cognitive decline, and/or boost creativity.

Brain gym activities for adhd