EndeavorRx is a videogame designed to improve certain aspects of attention in children aged 8 to 12 years who have Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Its precursor, NeuroRacer was designed to improve multitasking in older folks and was studied in people aged 20 to 79 years. As we get older, we aren’t as good at multi-tasking as younger people. The scientists who developed the game found that older adults who played the game had improved multi-tasking performance immediately after game playing and improvements lasted for six months! The older adults actually did better on multi-tasking tests than 20 year-olds who didn’t play the game.
So, what does this have to do with ADHD? Well, people with ADHD aren’t good at multi-tasking. In studies using an earlier version of EndeavorRx, children with ADHD who played the game for 25 minutes a day for about a month showed improved attention symptoms on computer-based testing. The Food and Drug Administration cleared EndeavorRx and it is available by prescription for children aged 8 to 12 years. Further studies with EndeavorRx are underway at my clinic for patients ages 18 and up. There is no cost to participate in a study. For more information call 702-838-0742 or fill out the contact form on this website.
Does that mean that all video games will improve attention? The answer is no. Excessive screen time and technology use may worsen ADHD symptoms, impair social and emotional intelligence and lead to social isolation, sleep problems and technology addiction. EndeavorRx is the only game FDA cleared for patients with ADHD.