Conversely, if these neurons are stimulated (by way of new sensations, new knowledge, and new experiences) they develop new neural connections between themselves. Once these connections are established, the neurons will all live and grow more connections. In illnesses like Alzheimer s, strokes, and other motor neuron diseases, this self-destruction of neurons can lead to serious consequences. The following list gives out reasons why the right kind of mental exercises can fortify your brain. It also reiterates what research says about using brain calisthenics to defend yourself against memory loss. (1) Mental decline is not inevitable. Adults can actually grow new brain cells. This reverses the long-held belief that lost brainpower caused by aging cannot be recovered anymore. This early brain training is a powerful tool for parents for their children to become smarter. The training is even more powerful for parents of children with learning disabilities or other developmental problems. The significance of the improvements can help the child in his later life stages (academic success, job performance and career advancement). However, it does not mean that there is significant development on the brain, itself. In Buschkuehl s research, the respondents were trained in a visual/ auditory memory exam. The respondent subjects were initially tested using the German measure called Bochumer Matrizen-Test, where they scored an average of 10. Alzheimer effects on the brain could also be slowed down by brain training as showed in the case of Richard Wetherhill. A skilled chess player and a university lecturer, Wetherhill underwent neurological exams getting normal results. But when his body was autopsied after his death, tests showed that he had developed advanced Alzheimer s disease. Going Left And Right With Brain Training The brain is so complex that it needed to be split into two equal parts called hemispheres. Each side has been tasked to function in varying life situations. Although there is a dominant part in an individual it will help a lot if you are acquainted with different training activities that can help balance brain processes.