Effects of a Mobile Game in Menopausal Women

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life characterized by hormonal changes that may affect physical, psychological, and cognitive health. In addition to vasomotor symptoms, many women report cognitive difficulties during the menopausal transition, commonly referred to as "brain fog." Brain fog encompasses subjective experiences such as reduced concentration, forgetfulness, slower information processing, and difficulties in maintaining attention. These cognitive challenges may negatively influence daily functioning, work productivity, self-confidence, and overall quality of life.

Psychological well-being is another important aspect of women's health during menopause. Hormonal fluctuations, aging-related changes, and psychosocial factors may contribute to declines in well-being. Cognitive difficulties and psychological well-being are closely interrelated, as persistent cognitive concerns may increase emotional distress and negatively affect individuals' perceptions of their mental health and well-being.

Digital health interventions have gained increasing attention as accessible and scalable approaches for supporting health promotion and symptom management. Among these interventions, mobile games offer opportunities to engage users through interactive and motivating activities while facilitating learning and cognitive stimulation. Cognitive training exercises delivered through mobile games may support cognitive functions such as attention, working memory, cognitive flexibility, verbal fluency, and visual memory. However, evidence regarding the effectiveness of mobile game-based cognitive interventions specifically designed for menopausal women remains limited.

The mobile game used in this study was developed to provide cognitive training through gamified activities targeting multiple cognitive domains. The intervention incorporates structured exercises intended to support attention, memory, problem-solving, and cognitive flexibility while promoting sustained engagement through an interactive digital format.

This study will investigate whether participation in a mobile game-based cognitive intervention can improve cognitive functioning related to brain fog and enhance psychological well-being among menopausal women. The findings are expected to contribute to the growing evidence base on non-pharmacological digital interventions and may support the development of accessible, low-cost, and sustainable approaches for promoting cognitive and psychological health during menopause.

Inclusion criteria

Women aged 45-55 years Able to read and write in Turkish Able to use a smartphone (Android or iOS) Amenorrhea for at least 12 months Willing to participate and provide written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

Diagnosis of serious neurological disorders such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, or multiple sclerosis Diagnosis of severe psychiatric disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia Regular use of medications that may significantly affect cognitive function, including antiepileptics, antiparkinsonian drugs, antipsychotics, or antidepressants Participation in cognitive training, memory training, or a similar digital intervention within the last 6 months Visual, auditory, or motor impairments that would prevent the use of the mobile application Participants scoring within the lowest 25% quartile (Q1) on the Brain Fog Scale