• by Gordon Plutsky , Columnist, March 9, 2015

The idea that brain health and cognitive performance can improve with age is a trending topic and gaining steam among Boomers. Recent research shows that the brain maintains the ability to regenerate cells and wire new pathways as we age. This is relevant because today’s Boomers want to work longer, tackle second careers, stay in their homes and remain independent. Losing cognitive ability will prevent anyone from enjoying his or her second act.

According to Crain’s Chicago Business, the brain-fitness industry fueled by a growing aging population has boomed. Worldwide revenues surged to more than $1 billion in 2012 from $200 million in 2005 and are expected to surpass $6 billion by 2020, according to Alvaro Fernandez, chief executive of San Francisco market research firm SharpBrains and co-author of The Sharp Brains Guide to Brain Fitness.

Additionally, AARP has done a study of its members and came up with some interesting facts on important brain fitness is among Boomers:

“Brain health is the second most important component in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, after heart health (37% find brain health most important while 51% find heart health most important).

“Brain training is a relatively well-known concept among consumers (52% are aware of brain training). Working on puzzles (70%), solving word problems (67%), math problems (59%), and playing memorization games (55%) are all popular cognitive exercises consumers have engaged to improve or maintain brain health.

“To better maintain a healthy lifestyle, consumers are willing to spend money on tools or resources to maintain or improve brain health (50% are very or extremely willing).”

And this from Runner’s World on how physical fitness can improve brain function:

“A new study in the journal Frontiers in Aging on Neuroscience found that people age 50 and older that did aerobic exercise improved their fitness—no surprise there. But the small study also concluded that exercise might help keep our minds sharp as we age.

“The researchers found that aerobic exercise improved subjects’ brain function and cognition. The benefits were linked to increased blood flow to the hippocampus, the brain’s memory center, and increased flow to the anterior cingulate region, an area linked to superior cognitive abilities in later life.”

It is clear that the above facts sets the stage for the growth and/or creation of several new businesses aimed at helping keep Boomers mentally sharp.

Online games and web sites – Sites like Lumosity are growing as Boomers try their hand at puzzles, games and quizzes to keep their mind sharp. There is plenty of room for new entrants and competitors in this space.

Group or individual health programs – There are numerous opportunities for programs aimed at individuals or groups of Boomers to participate in structured programs for brain health just like they do for physical fitness. In fact, health clubs could offer brain fitness classes along with spinning, yoga and swimming. There should be a growing demand for fitness programs aimed at 50+ participants that address their unique needs and a holistic approach to mind and body health.

Continuing education – Schools looking for a new revenue stream should create courses designed for 50+ and retirees. They are ripe for a challenge that can expand their knowledge and exercise their mind at the same time. Learning a new language or complex math will help keep those neurons firing.

Art classes – There is significant evidence that participating in art programs will also improve brain function. One study showed that actually creating art improved brain connections. Putting this spin on art classes could increase participation among Boomers looking to try their hand at something new.