Click here to view an infographic summarizing how your library and patrons can benefit from BrainHQ

BrainHQ™ is Posit Science’s scientifically proven suite of online brain fitness exercises designed to help its users think faster, focus better, and remember more. You may already know that a number of scientific studies have shown that the exercises and assessments in BrainHQ deliver a wide range of benefits to older adults and those with cognitive disorders, including enhanced cognition and improved quality of life. What you may not know is how greatly BrainHQ can improve the lives of other groups in your community as well. Read on to learn how six populations that your library already serves could benefit from the brain-boosting effects of BrainHQ.

1. Drivers

Whether you’re a new or seasoned driver operating a car or even a bicycle, things like reaction time and visual acuity are key. Research indicates that brain performance — tracking multiple objects, maintaining a clear sight of what is straight ahead, viewing things in the periphery — is the biggest factor in safe driving. BrainHQ is proven to improve the cognitive functions that are essential for safe drivers, with one study showing a 51% reduction in at-fault crash rates after using the brain training exercises. “I am exponentially more alert, attentive, present, and thankful, which results in a safer and better experience for my customers and myself,” shares Mike, a cabdriver who uses BrainHQ. “It’s amazing to see what the brain can do.”

2. Those Suffering from Medical Conditions

BrainHQ can improve the lives of individuals suffering from a host of medical issues and illnesses, including cancer. With an estimated 1,735,350 new cases of cancer diagnosed in the United States in 2018, BrainHQ has the potential to positively impact many of those in your community. Up to 90% of those with or who have survived cancer report suffering from “chemo brain,” cognitive issues caused from the disease or its treatment. Studies have shown that BrainHQ’s brain training can lead to significant gains in visual speed, processing speed, and executive function among those suffering from this condition. BrainHQ has also been scientifically shown to help improve cognitive function in people with other illnesses that are linked with diminished cognitive ability, such as multiple sclerosis, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.

3. Athletes

Did you know that using BrainHQ can improve not just your cognitive abilities, but it can positively affect physical abilities like balance and gait as well? Positive improvements like these are important to people across all generations who engage in sports or other activities that require focus, quick physical and mental reaction time, memory, and/or balance. Athletes — including quarterback Tom Brady, who uses BrainHQ as part of his TB12 Method for achieving peak performance — are realizing that cognitive conditioning is just as important as physical conditioning. If an athlete’s brain speed is slow, their play is slow; providing athletes of all ages access to BrainHQ’s exercises will help keep their play (and their brains!) in peak condition.

4. First Responders

In roles that involve high-stakes split-second decisions, fast and accurate cognitive abilities are critical. Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and other emergency workers and first responders can all benefit from the increased focus and mental acuity that BrainHQ provides. Studies have also shown that BrainHQ can help first responders in other ways, like significantly diminishing tinnitus, a problem that affects a considerable number of emergency workers who often work in noisy environments. Libraries like the Nicholson Memorial Library System in Texas have already begun outreach programs with their local police and fire departments to ensure their first responders are able to reap the benefits of BrainHQ.

5. Parents (and Their Families!)

Being a parent is hard work. Whether it’s the sleepless nights of raising a newborn or keeping up with the hectic schedules of older kids, parenting requires maintaining cognitive acumen and agility. Mike, a 40-year-old first-time father, uses BrainHQ to make sure he does just that. “I’m going to be close to 60 when my kid graduates from high school,” he explains. “I want to be sharp for fatherhood now and stay sharp as that time goes on.”

BrainHQ is something that parents can engage in with their children even after their children grow up. After Bobi-Rose’s father started using BrainHQ, she followed suit. “Brain training gave me more mental control [and] a little bit of calm,” she explains, something that can benefit parents and children alike. Furthermore, those who use BrainHQ may find it leads to other healthy choices in their lives. Mike stresses that he wants “to be a good role model and help my kid develop healthy habits. Brain training is part of a balanced approach to health.” Bobi-Rose agrees, noting that brain training “prompted a whole well-being” and motivated her to take other healthy steps as well.

6. Teens

The potential benefits of BrainHQ for teens are substantial. Not only can the memory skills, better focus, and attention to detail that the program develops set teens up for success in the classroom, but the exercises featured in this brain training program can help teens avoid potentially fatal situations like driving accidents. In 2017, distraction was a key factor in 58% of crashes that involved 16- to 19-year-old drivers. Each of BrainHQ’s Attention exercises is designed to challenge the brain to overcome distractions and focus its attention. With enough of this practice, teens are not only able to drive safer, but they can leverage these new skills to become more attentive in other areas of their lives as well.

How Can Your Patrons Benefit from BrainHQ?

There are many more populations whose cognitive health could be improved by brain training. To learn more about how this valuable resource can be marketed to and utilized by the whole community, see how Nicholson Memorial Library System does it. Download their case study here and be inspired to start improving your community’s health.