RC21X has released a free mobile app, Roberto, that quickly gives users information on their brain performance through playing a series of video games.
The seven games stress in the app different parts of the brain, providing web-based versions of pen-and-paper tests that have been used for decades to monitor neurocognitive and neuromotor performance. Each session takes about six minutes to complete and produces a set of scores that provides objective data on brain performance. A downward trend in the performance on those sessions could signal a need for more conversations and testing with healthcare providers.
“Brain health is a growing concern, with an increased medical focus on both concussion in sports as well as dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease among baby boomers,” RC21X CEO Clarence Carlos, a former West Virginia football player, said in a statement. “Until recently, wellness programs have largely ignored the brain. Armed with data from Roberto, consumers can make lifestyle adjustments that will positively affect their brain health, such as exercise, nutrition and socialization.”
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RC21X is a Coraopolis, Penn.-based company that has former NFL quarterback Gus Frerotte as a vice president and former Pro Bowl players Ray Lewis and Matt Birk as supporters.
“What I like about these tools is that they allow people to be proactive with their brain health,” Frerotte, the vice president of Brain Performance Initiatives for RC21X, said in a statement. “I’m excited because this can help a lot of people.”
The Roberto app is based on RC21X’s desktop monitoring platform, and the company suggests a three-step approach to using it. First, users can practice playing two sessions to get a feel for the modules. Then they establish their “normal range” by playing four game sessions. This creates the users’ Brain Performance Profile—objective data about their personal performance compared to data from similar population groups. As users continue to take Roberto sessions they can spot trends and be proactive in their brain health by sharing results with healthcare providers, coaches or trainer. They can also monitor the effects of lifestyle changes like exercise programs, diets and new medications.
In addition to the app being geared toward current athletes and those in youth sports organizations, it can also provide benefits for retired football players.
The app provides a discreet way to do a quick checkup for those former players who worry about their brain health but are uncomfortable about talking about their growing weaknesses, according to Sports Illustrated.
“Nobody wants to admit that their brain is not functioning right,” Jason Luckasevic, who was the first lawyer to sue the NFL over concussions, told SI. “But one thing I’ve noticed about these retired football players is they want to help themselves. They don’t want to be a burden on their families or on taxpayers.”
Former Cleveland Browns running back Cleo Miller was one of the first to take the test.
“I knew I wasn’t really healthy,” he told SI. “But I didn’t know how unhealthy I really was. The app makes you take a microscopic look at yourself.
“By taking that test, it gave me a sense of relief. The scary thing is not knowing.”
The app was named after baseball legend and humanitarian Roberto Clemente, who died trying to bring relief to victims of an earthquake. His son, Roberto Clemente Jr. serves as an ambassador for RC21X.
“The connection to the Clemente legacy has been an integral part of our company’s mission and vision since its founding in 2013,” Carlos said. “We named the company after him, incorporating Clemente’s name – RC – and uniform number – 21 and now with this app we have the potential to provide access to anyone with a smart phone – and to educate people about the care they need earlier and more cost-effectively.”
The app is available for download through the App Store, Google Play and Amazon. It is also available at www.robertoapp.com.
app walkthrough from Thomas Moore on Vimeo.