Genius - Brain Training Mobile Application for the Elderly

In 2020, there were 234 thousand or so people in Mauritius who were over 60. From 36 thousand in 1971 to 234 thousand in 2020, this age group has increased significantly. Mauritius is at the forefront of Africa in proactively recognizing aging as a serious problem for the wellbeing and competitiveness of its society and economy. Alzheimer's disease and dementia are two age-related illnesses that are becoming more common in older people, posing a frightening challenge not just for those who have them but also for their family and caregivers. It is therefore crucial to participate in activities that maintain a healthy and active neurological system because as we age, the nerves in our brains tend to deteriorate. The primary aim of this paper is hence to create a mobile serious game, Genius that can help to maintain the cognitive abilities of the elderly people. Genius consists of several games aiming at improving the memory, attention, problem-solving, speed, concentration, reflex, communication and language skills of the user. This mobile application can be used by elders in retirement homes initially under the supervision of a healthcare assistant or by independent elders. Genius has been tested in a Non-Governmental Organization based in Mauritius and has been appreciated by the users including the caregivers. We anticipate that the use of the mobile serious game Genius will be very beneficial for the aging population of Mauritius and can eventually help in reducing the risks of dementia.