These days, pretty much everyone plays video games in some way, be it the office worker killing time on his or her lunch-break with simulation games online, or the 30-something mates hosting FIFA tournaments in their front rooms. But while we all enjoy it, new research has suggested that playing games may have some significant health benefits too.

The theory is that the brain, like every other part of your body, needs regular exercise or it will begin to suffer. Researchers believe that this ‘brain training’ (which involves exercises relating to memory and studying), can help improve how the brain works, and may even prevent Alzheimer’s in old age. And, naturally, games manufacturers have risen to the occasion, producing a range of ‘brain training’ products that aim to enhance brain performance and improve mental ability. But do they actually work?

It’s doubtless that there is a significant link between brain exercise and increased brain function. The CAMG study (led by Doug et al in 2006), found that adults with brain damage were able to improve their cognitive abilities after using learning packs that aimed to teach them new things. And the Brain Plasticity Computer Programme by Mahncke et al found that participants who had regularly completed ‘brain training’ computer games had far greater mental agility than those who didn’t.

So, what should you do? It can never hurt to try, of course, although you may want to look into free games online before you start shelling out for ‘brain training’ software. And don’t forget the other vitals to ensuring a healthy life (and brain): get plenty of exercise, eat well, see friends regularly, etc. While playing games may lead to an agile brain in later life, so will these other good habits, so live a balanced life and reap the rewards.