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What online tools support memory training for individuals with ADHD? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Online cognitive-training tools can offer small, short-term improvements in working memory and attention for people with ADHD. However, the evidence for lasting or generalised benefits in everyday organisation and functioning remains limited. According to the NICE ADHD guideline (NG87), no specific cognitive-training programme is recommended as a stand-alone treatment. Current research supports using tools such as Cogmed, Lumosity and EndeavorRx as optional aids within comprehensive ADHD care rather than as replacements for medication, behavioural therapy or environmental support. 

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What NICE, NHS and RCPsych say 

NICE guidance focuses on psychoeducation, behavioural strategies and evidence-based medication or psychological therapies. It recommends practical supports for inattention and organisation—such as reminders, written instructions and structured routines—but does not endorse online working-memory or “brain-training” apps as ADHD treatments. Similarly, the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ good practice guidance for adults highlights psychoeducation and skills-based approaches, without recommending specific digital cognitive-training tools. 

NHS and ORCHA-linked app libraries mainly promote self-management, reminder and mood-tracking apps rather than intensive training platforms. Some attention or memory exercises appear within these resources, but they are not marketed as core ADHD treatments. Local NHS ADHD resources, such as Dorset Healthcare’s ADHD page, also focus on productivity tools and coping strategies rather than commercial neurocognitive training programmes. 

Evidence from research and reviews 

A 2025 umbrella review of digital interventions for ADHD found that computerised cognitive training produced small improvements in inattention and working-memory performance but minimal effects on hyperactivity, impulsivity or everyday outcomes. Evidence quality was rated as low, with most studies being short-term and small-scale. 

A 2023 meta-analysis of computerised cognitive training in ADHD reported modest but statistically significant gains in working memory, particularly for tasks similar to those practised in training. Improvements were strongest when measured within the training environment, while effects on broader ADHD symptoms were small. The same review found some short-term improvements in academic and executive-function outcomes, though these were inconsistent across studies. 

Further reviews of serious games and digital therapeutics have identified small-to-moderate gains in targeted cognitive abilities, such as working memory and attention, but limited transfer to real-world functioning. The evidence suggests that these tools can strengthen specific skills through repetition and feedback but may not substantially improve everyday organisation or school and work performance. 

How specific platforms perform 

Cogmed has the most consistent evidence base among ADHD-focused tools. Studies show that it can improve trained working-memory tasks but has weaker effects on general ADHD symptoms or academic outcomes. Lumosity and similar multi-game suites show comparable results, short-term gains in working memory and attention, but limited transfer to broader functioning. EndeavorRx, a prescription video-game therapeutic for children aged 8–17 with ADHD, has been shown to improve attention performance on digital tasks. However, studies note modest effect sizes and minimal impact on overall ADHD symptom scores. 

How to interpret the evidence 

Most online cognitive-training tools aim to strengthen neural circuits involved in working memory and attention through adaptive repetition and gamified feedback. This approach can improve performance on trained tasks but has limited evidence of long-term real-world benefit. Research indicates that online memory-training tools are safe and engaging, with mild side effects such as frustration or fatigue occasionally reported in children. 

Key takeaway 

Online memory-training tools can play a supportive role in helping people with ADHD practice attention and working-memory skills. Evidence shows modest improvements in cognitive performance, particularly on trained tasks, but limited transfer to daily life. As NICE and the Royal College of Psychiatrists note, these tools should be seen as optional supplements rather than treatments. Used alongside behavioural strategies, environmental supports and clinical care, they can provide a structured and motivating way to strengthen focus and memory. 

Harriet Winslow, BSc
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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