Are Video Games Good for Your Brain? What Seniors Should Know
There are a lot of people over 50 in Kalamazoo, MI, who play video games. Some games can improve your attention, reaction time, and working memory, making them like a mental workout. Aside from improving brain power, family and online games can also improve well-being by providing social connections, attainable goals, and a sense of progress.
Video games aren't just for kids. There are millions of Americans over the age of 50 who enjoy playing video games regularly. The days of video games being something exclusively for teenagers are long over. These days, they're part of modern senior engagement, with seniors using phones, computers, and even dedicated game consoles to join online games enthusiastically.
But are these games just a way to pass the time, or are video games good for your brain? Let's find out.
Modern Senior Engagement: Digital Brain Games
Video games are more than just a fun activity; they're also a workout for your brain. Studies show that playing video games has a range of beneficial effects, such as improving reaction times, attention, and short-term memory. While staying physically fit is important, brain health is also key, and playing certain kinds of video games is almost like going to the gym for your brain.
So, are video games good for your brain? Researchers at the University of San Francisco have developed specialized therapeutic games that can enhance cognitive function in older adults. The principle behind these games and the benefits they offer is similar to going to the gym and developing muscles.
If you don't use these parts of your body, whether it's the brain or your arms, you start to lose function. Video games offer a fun challenge that helps maintain mental sharpness and energy.
Are Video Games Good for Your Brain?
Of course, there is a huge range of different video games. Some are suited for those who want a competitive, fast-paced experience where success depends on quick reflexes and fast thinking, whereas other games resemble board games like Risk but with an engaging electronic interface.
There are also games that can improve physical health as well as mental health. For example, on the Nintendo Wii console, seniors can play Wii Sports, which lets them enjoy fun simulations of sports like boxing, bowling, golf, and tennis.
Social Connection and Cognitive Stimulation in Aging
These games also provide a fun social experience. They're designed to be accessible and easy to pick up and play. The whole family can get involved, making it a social family bonding experience as much as it is cognitive enrichment. In an AARP survey, 66% of older adults claimed that playing video games improved their mental health and increased their well-being.
Playing games creates a sense of mental accomplishment, with many games offering steady progression where gamers are rewarded by unlocking new content or earning achievement points for every bit of progress they make. Some studies, such as one from Yesol Kim, suggest that this kind of progression can ease symptoms of depression in older adults.
Online games can provide senior memory support and the opportunity to enjoy social connections that may not be possible in the real world. Competitive online games, much like sports teams, benefit from playing together with a regular team.
Similar to people meeting weekly to play sports, you start to develop bonds that extend beyond the game. You also develop tactics and strategies, and feel a sense of accomplishment and connection when you put those into practice to outperform your opponent.
Through voice-over IP services like Discord or TeamSpeak, seniors can chat with their fellow players throughout the week, forming long-lasting friendships that can evolve into close relationships outside of the gaming world.
Mobile Games
Playing games is more accessible than ever before. You don't need to buy a dedicated games console or have a powerful computer. Seniors tend to love brain teasers and logic puzzle games.
There are a huge number of such games available on smartphones. For example, there are:
- Puzzle games
- Card games
- Tile matching games
- Word games
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shirley Curry?
Shirley Curry is an 87-year-old grandma from Virginia who gained online fame after posting videos of herself playing the fantasy role-playing game Skyrim. Viewers were captivated by her personality, but also her knowledge of the game.
In recognition of how she shattered stereotypes, the game's developers are planning to feature her in a future version of the series. Her story is a powerful reminder that you're never too old to have fun and explore new hobbies.
Can Seniors Play Video Games at a High Level?
While first-person shooters and action games favor fast thinking and reflexes, that doesn't mean senior players can't get competitive. For example, just look at GrndpaGaming. Like Shirley Curry, he gained online fame for playing video games.
GrndpaGaming streams his gameplay online, and thanks to his decades of military experience, he offers a unique perspective on gaming strategies, team tactics, and life in general.
According to Bro Bible, he plays competitive action games like:
- Apex Legends
- Battlefield
- PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds
Unlike Skyrim, these games are online multiplayer titles. Despite having a long list of health problems, such as limited feeling in his hands, GrndpaGaming still dominates players young enough to be his grandkids.
It just goes to show how seniors can step up to a new challenge in old age.
Discover a Supportive Community
So, are video games good for your brain? As you can see, gaming is a deep and varied hobby that can boost senior brain health, provide opportunities for socializing, and keep seniors amused and engaged. Whether you're playing casual puzzle games on a smartphone or competing in fast-paced action games on a games console, video games are a much better way to spend retirement than just passively watching TV.
Here at LakeHouse Kalamazoo, we help our residents find lifelong learning activities and engagement all year round, whether they're gaming, joining exercise classes, or taking part in engaging workshops. There's something for every resident.
For brave military veterans like GrndpaGaming, we're pleased to offer a generous discount on the monthly rent.
We'd love to show you around our community. Contact us today to learn more about the LakeHouse Kalamazoo lifestyle.