We all know games are one of the best ways to get our minds off of the outside world. Now, technology is advancing with more and more accessibility. With games being available on numerous devices like our phones, TVs, consoles, computers and even tablets, the opportunity for more growth is endless. And we don’t just mean mindless games. We mean games of value that can keep our minds active without requiring strenuous engagement. Things like trivia, card games, or even word puzzles can employ your senses. There are also easier ways to access these with digital platforms rolling out new versions of these games every week. In the senior population, gaming has been proven to dramatically increase the quality of life, even defending your mind against memory-loss conditions like Alzheimer’s… but how?
Let the Games Begin
Games bring out a sense of spirited playfulness that really can’t be achieved in any other way. Although as we get older, our lives get busier. We tend to lose track of those competitive or energetic outlets. In today’s modern age, that does not need to be the case. We can access nearly every game imaginable on our phones, tablets, or computers. There are some good games for mere distraction, but there are also plenty of games that can get your brain working.
Benefits of Gaming
The benefit of gaming is not just to occupy some time out of your day. Ideally, these games will revive your attention in a meaningful way. You can play single user games or reinforce some social activity with multi-user games. You can get your friends and neighbors in your senior living community to play along with you. If that doesn’t work, you can also play against other users around the world with just a few taps on your device. Some seniors have even made friends internationally for years to come based on digital gaming interactions.
Other benefits of gaming include:
- Improved memory
- Increased attention to detail
- Improved coordination
- Improved decision-making skills
- Strengthened brain flexibility
- Can provide a platform for fitness (i.e. Wii)
- Enhanced coordination
Gaming for Senior Living
Gaming isn’t just about getting your mind active. And also it’s not just about making new friends. Senior living is about making the most of your time and enjoying new and existing hobbies. Entertaining your faculty with games of any variety, digital or otherwise, is a great way to create fulfilling connections, memories, and experiences. Engage with those around you or those around the world by just trying out some of the most popular games out there.
