Are video games good for seniors?

A study conducted by North Carolina State University has shown seniors who play video games regularly or even occasionally report better overall emotional well-being. Research conducted on 140 people who are at least 63 years old or older showed interesting results which caregivers may want to use in caring for their own families. What this research tells caregivers and their loved ones is video games may have numerous benefits to enhance a senior’s emotional health. Once they find a game they like, the rewards of playing may extend beyond beating their last record or the competition and be evidenced by improvement in other areas of the person’s life.

Do older adults play video games?

Research has shown a growth in the number of older adults who are playing online games. For example, PopCap Games conducted a customer survey, which showed 76 percent of the players are women. Seventy-one percent are over 40 years of age, while almost half (47 percent) are over the age of 50. PopCap Games is the maker of Bejeweled, a popular game with older adults.

What are the benefits of strategy video games?

Complex strategy video games have benefits for mental health, according to research. Games such as Rise of Nations helps to improve memory and enhance cognitive skills. Playing video games, even occasionally enhances short-term memory and also compel players to swiftly transition between various tasks, fostering cognitive flexibility and adaptability. Playing challenging games can train the brain to maintain focus in other areas. The key is to improve at the game and continually be learning. Ezriel Kornel, M.D., of Brain and Spine Surgeons of New York in Westchester County, says new synapses form between the neurons in the brain when it’s learning something new, and these connections can be used in other situations.