Over the years I have noticed that using computers the way that I( and many others) do puts me in the position of needing all the mental acuity I can get. There are plenty of activities which help in this regard. Not very surprising to me is the fact that many of these activities which lead towards cognitive development are what you might call ‘old school’ methods.
There is a qualitative difference between reading and watching, between typing and handwriting. Learning to ‘make change’ as well as doing simple arithmetic problems as quickly as possible lead towards some kinds of cognitive development.
There are simple games which demand the development of pattern recognition such as: Solitaire, Mah Jonng, and many visual puzzles in general. The (to me) king of games which lead towards mental development may be Chess.
Here are a few links to suggest other means towards keeping sharp.
Mind Exercise Puzzles
http://www.mindexercisepuzzles.com
Mind Exercises Improve Memory
http://www.suite101.com/content/stay-mentally-sharp-a5053
Concentration Exercises
http://www.successconsciousness.com/index_000005.htm
Top 10 Tips and Tricks to Train, Exercise, and Better Your Brain
http://lifehacker.com/5746353/top-10-tips-tricks-and-tools-to-train-exercise-and-better-your-brain
Mental fitness–exercises for the brain
http://www.bellydoc.com/articles/article7.htm
