When you picture a “gamer,” do you see a 70-year-old woman playing Nintendo? Probably not! However, it’s not as farfetched as you might believe. Around 15% of video game players are over 55 . These gamers may use video games for the fun factor, but they and other older adults can use video games to support senior health, too. We take a look at how they help and suggest several fun games to help realize these benefits.
Let’s explore how video games, including virtual reality (VR), can enhance physical health, cognitive function, and social connections for seniors.
Three ways video games support senior health
Physical benefits of gaming
Certain games, especially those designed for VR or motion-control systems, encourage physical activity. “Active video games can improve measures of mobility and balance in older people when used either on their own or as part of an exercise program,” concluded a report in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy . Gentle exercise through gaming can be particularly worthwhile for seniors with mobility issues or who prefer low-impact activities.
Physical advantages of gaming include:
Cardiovascular health: Active video games and VR experiences can raise the heart rate, providing cardiovascular benefits. Games that involve aerobic movements, like virtual sports or dance games, can help improve heart health and overall fitness.
Rehabilitation and physical therapy: Many VR applications are designed specifically for rehabilitative purposes. These programs guide seniors through physical therapy exercises in an engaging and motivating way, helping with recovery from surgeries, injuries, or chronic conditions.
Flexibility and range of motion: Some VR programs focus on activities that enhance flexibility and range of motion. Guided stretching exercises or yoga sessions in a virtual environment can help seniors maintain their joint health and overall flexibility.
Pain management: Engaging in VR experiences can potentially distract from pain , reduce pain perception, lower the need for pain medication, and significantly improve the quality of life for seniors with chronic pain issues.
Enhanced memory: Video games and VR can stimulate the brain, helping to improve both short-term and long-term memory. Puzzle games, strategy games, and VR-based memory exercises can challenge seniors to think critically and remember sequences or patterns, enhancing their memory retention abilities.
Improved attention and concentration: Many video games require sustained attention and quick decision-making. Games that involve complex tasks or navigating virtual environments can help older adults enhance their attention span and concentration.
Problem-solving skills: Strategy and puzzle games require players to think ahead, plan, and solve complex problems. These activities boost cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills, which are essential for daily decision-making.
Spatial awareness: VR environments, in particular, provide immersive experiences that can improve spatial orientation and awareness. Navigating through virtual scenes can help seniors better understand spatial relationships, which is crucial for driving or navigating new spaces.
Executive function: Planning, multitasking, and inhibiting inappropriate responses are executive functions that seniors can sharpen through complex games that require strategic thinking and managing multiple simultaneous objectives.
Social connections through video games
Multiplayer and cooperative video games support senior health by providing social interaction. Engaging with others adds opportunities to connect with others, bridging generational gaps and fostering meaningful interactions. Here are a few examples:
Online multiplayer games: Many video games offer online multiplayer modes where players worldwide can connect and play together. These interactions create opportunities for seniors to make new friends and engage in cooperative tasks or competitions, fostering a sense of community.
Family bonding: Playing video games with family members enhances intergenerational relationships. Multiplayer or party games can unite families, providing a fun and interactive way for different generations to share time and experiences.
Social gaming platforms: Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and Steam allow players to form groups, join communities, and participate in forums. These social platforms enable seniors to find others with similar interests and hobbies, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
Clubs and meetups: Local communities and senior centers now offer gaming clubs and meetups for older adults. These gatherings can provide a regular social outlet and help seniors build lasting friendships through a shared interest in gaming.
Virtual reality (VR) experiences: VR platforms offer immersive social experiences where players meet and interact in virtual environments. These experiences can mimic real-life social interactions.
Reduced isolation: For seniors with limited mobility or who face geographic isolation, online gaming can provide an essential outlet for social interaction. Engaging in gaming can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
VR applications and video games to support senior health
The following video games support senior health in an enjoyable way, supporting social, cognitive, and physical well-being.
Brain Age (Nintendo DS)
Brain Age offers various brain-stimulating activities, including puzzles, math problems, and reading exercises to improve cognitive functions like memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.
Wii Sports (Nintendo Wii)
Wii Sports includes virtual versions of tennis, bowling, baseball, golf, and boxing, played using motion-sensing controllers. These games encourage physical activity in a fun and engaging way, helping seniors improve their balance, coordination, and overall fitness.
Big Brain Academy (Nintendo Switch)
This game offers mini-games to improve cognitive abilities such as memory, analysis, identification, and math skills. Big Brain Academy is user-friendly and engaging, making it an excellent tool for mental stimulation.
My Fitness Coach (Nintendo Wii)
This game offers personalized fitness routines tailored to individual needs and fitness levels. It provides a variety of workouts, including yoga, strength training, and aerobics, which can help seniors maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Video games and VR applications present valuable opportunities for older adults to enhance physical health, cognitive function, and social connections. By integrating these technologies, seniors can enjoy engaging experiences that promote overall well-being and improve quality of life.
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