Tampa Bay Online had a great and detailed look at brain fitness games across all age groups today.

The nice thing about the article is that it talks about what is "marketing hooey" as well as what has been proven to work; we at Somatic Vision are very committed to the success of our games, and the article very much reflected our point of view. Some important excerpts:

• "It's similar to going to a health club and deciding you want to work on your biceps or your abdomen," says Alvaro Fernandez, a neuroscientist and co-founder of SharpBrains, an independent science-based clearinghouse that evaluates brain fitness games.

• "It's similar to going to a health club and deciding you want to work on your biceps or your abdomen," says Alvaro Fernandez, a neuroscientist and co-founder of SharpBrains, an independent science-based clearinghouse that evaluates brain fitness games.

• Brain fitness requires more than memory games and mental stimulation. It also involves nutrition, physical fitness and stress management, Fernandez says. Studies also have shown that socialization is important.

• Working adults — Stress management is critical at this busy time of life, but it's an oft-neglected area of brain fitness. Fernandez says the best exercises blend mental challenges with meditation and other calming practices. Even better are ones that offer biofeedback, immediate reads on body functions such as blood pressure and heart rate, so the user can adapt and improve. Finger sensors you wear while playing the game actually help you learn how to relax. Women, in particular, will respond to these stress-busting games, Fernandez says.

• Older adults — Teaching an old dog new tricks is critical for older adults who want to get their brains moving, Fernandez says. Computer games are a good choice because older adults aren't as familiar or adept with them as say, crossword puzzles.

• BE A SHREWD SHOPPER. People looking to select a book or interactive game aimed at brain fitness should ask: Is the program based on published scientific evidence you can read for yourself? Does it claim to provide specific benefits, and if so, what skill or part of the brain is being exercised? Are you learning something new? Are you challenged, or just being entertained? Does this fit your personal goals and commitment?