Playing games has been a popular activity for centuries. At one time, games were one of the most widespread evening activities for families. Customs may have changed over the years, from a preference for board games and cards to video games. However, some of the benefits have remained the same. Playing games entertains us, challenges us, and uses critical thinking skills. Playing games exercises the brain, and that has obvious benefits for seniors.
Games are an important activity for seniors living in community with others. The following are some of the major advantages for seniors who participate in games and similar activities that engage the brain.
Improves Short-term Memory
Remembering instructions, knowing which moves are allowed, and remembering whose turn it is strengthens short-term memory skills. These activities keep the mind active and engaged, sharpen the senses, and stimulate the imagination. Improvement of short-term memory enhances quality of life.
Enhances Cognitive Skills
Playing games improves focus and concentration, and helps us process information. Boosting brain activity increases the ability to multitask. Eye-hand coordination may be stimulated, and motor skills may be improved. Engaging with others as we play games develops social skills and encourages interaction with others. This is a major benefit to seniors who may feel isolated and depressed.
Maintains Critical Reasoning Skills
Games often require learning new skills or strategies and boost the way a person thinks or reasons. They increase understanding of our surroundings. Playing games requires making critical decisions and encourages finding solutions to problems. Practice and repetition develops faster thinking and processing skills.
How to Encourage Active Participation
Not all seniors have the same cognitive abilities or motor skills. Activities with rules that are concise and easy to understand are more likely to encourage participation. Large print makes it easier for seniors with declining vision. Having game pieces that are large enough to grasp is helpful for those with arthritis. Having a variety of games or puzzles available keeps it more interesting. Seniors who are more savvy with technology may enjoy video games or activities on their tablet or smartphone.
Group and Solo Activities
Board games, bingo, and cards are appropriate for group participation. Solo activities may include Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and word search activities. Jigsaw puzzles are suitable for one person or a small group. The puzzle can be left out on a table so that people can participate for a while and come back to it later. These games and activities are a great option for inclement weather days when fewer people go outside. They provide critical social interaction.
Renaissance Villages
Renaissance Villages provides resort style living communities that allow residents to age in place and feel at home. Residents can participate in daily activities and events that engage them mentally, physically, and socially. Contact us for a tour of our residential offerings.
