Sharpen memory and fight brain fog with simple 60-second trick from a neurologist
Neurologist Rhonda Voskuhl says brain exercises may help with brain fog only when they target the specific skills a person finds difficult. She highlights word recall and processing speed, which can be affected during perimenopause and menopause, while basic logic and overall intelligence remain intact.
Voskuhl says number puzzles such as Sudoku are unlikely to improve trouble recalling names or words because they train different skills. She describes brain fog as often involving slowed retrieval of information already stored in memory, and recommends noticing everyday difficulties and trying word-based exercises that require quick responses.
In short
- Brain exercises should target the skill affected by brain fog.
- Word recall and processing speed may be affected around menopause.
- Number puzzles may not help with recalling names and words.
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The case for
Targeted word-retrieval exercises may be more useful than general puzzles when someone struggles to recall names or words. The approach is practical and tailored: noticing which everyday tasks are difficult can help people choose exercises that practise the relevant skill, such as retrieving words quickly.
The case against
The reported advice does not establish that brief word exercises reliably improve everyday memory or menopause-related brain fog. A short, appealing exercise may overstate what practice can achieve, and difficulties with concentration or recall can have varied causes that a single type of brain training may not address.
Explained simply
Perimenopause and menopause are stages when hormone levels change, and some people notice changes in concentration, word-finding or the speed at which they process information. These experiences are often described as “brain fog”; they do not necessarily mean a person has lost knowledge or general reasoning ability.
Neurologist Rhonda Voskuhl studies how these life stages can affect the brain. Memory and processing involve different skills, so an exercise that practises number patterns may not help someone who is struggling to recall words or names.
The distinction matters because brain exercises are more likely to address a difficulty when they practise that particular skill. Noticing which everyday tasks feel harder can help identify what kind of practice may be relevant.