Studies show that brain-teasing computer games may ward off Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and increase cognitive brain function. Could they eventually become a mainstay of corporate wellness programs?

For executives with their eyes on the bottom line, the thought of employees playing online video games at their desks may sound like a complete waste of time.

But studies have shown that certain games can actually improve brain power and even delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Some argue that cognitive brain exercises may be so helpful that employers should include them as part of their corporate-wellness programs.

A recent study of 1,300 people by the Mayo Clinic found that playing computer games, reading books or doing crafts during later years led to a 30 percent to 50 percent decrease in memory loss, compared to those who did not participate in such activities.

“Aging does not need to be a passive process. By simply engaging in cognitive exercise, you can protect against future memory loss,” says study author Dr. Yonas Geda, a neuropsychiatrist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.

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