Most parents understand the importance of setting good examples of good and responsible gaming habits and yet, they will spend hours on such mobile games as fruits or candies. But what about seniors?
Here is why online gaming is wonderful for the elderly, particularly those receiving at-home care or living in assisted living homes.
Reviving the Pleasure of Playing Free Online Games
Playing is one of the basic instincts that is inherent in every individual. Online games are an excellent way for young spirited seniors to feel young once again. These games make people free from mundane life and facilitate the thinking and learning process (except violence) forever and ever.
For seniors who are young at heart but still want to try playing online games, here are the benefits you can reap.
Cognitive Boost: Even casual walking and playing simple online games boost memory and attention, coupled with problem-solving brains.
Social Connection: Basically, it gives a manner through which the elderly can socialize with friends, families, and even people they may not be related with. Some of the games have a built-in chat so that people with similar interests can share with each other.
Stress Reduction and Well-being: To some extent, one can watch moving pictures that are interactive and generally have fun playing games which help them to relax, adopt a good mood, and feel relieved hence being of healthy benefits, especially when done at home.
Dexterity and Hand-Eye Coordination: For people with mild cognitive impairment, virtual painting, and other such games ensure that the hand and the eyes do not seize up. These games are somewhat of a gentle way to test reflexes as well as ensure that motor coordination is well-developed.
Creativity and Imagination: Thus, online games can foster creativity and thinking processes whether a person lives independently or moves to a facility to get assisted.
Decision-Making Skills: Board games such as chess help develop higher brain functions and thinking abilities among seniors, especially so in strategy-type games.
Pure Fun and Entertainment: As human beings, games are just so enjoyable you cannot explain why they are so and people will just understand that they are. They are joyful, funny, and fulfilling no matter what the age was the person when they were born.
Top Games That Your Grandparents Will Surely Love
Here are some popular online games perfect for seniors:
I'm a Puzzle: For jigsaw puzzle lovers, this one will hit you deep in your heart. From solving puzzles with 10 to 500 pieces, you can play a lot of themed puzzles that catch your interest including beautiful sceneries, animals, iconic landmarks, and more.
Well, aside from entertainment, these puzzles are good playthings for seniors for memory enhancement and decision-making practice.
Sudoku: This timeless classic brain teaser comes in difficulty levels to suit every player. Sudoku challenges basic arithmetic skills while encouraging deduction and logic to solve the number puzzles.
Chess.com: Whether a seasoned player or a curious beginner, Chess.com offers online chess with various play options and tournaments. Unlike the physical chess you're used to, this one will let you play in a virtual chessboard so no more moving of physical pieces in your front. It's also good to improve your social skills and meet new people online across all walks of life.
Online gaming is not always bad, but it should not be abused either. For seniors who are looking to feel entertained and connected to the internet, these online games are worth visiting.
Starting today, encourage your grandparents or other seniors to try these options. It's not too late to try something new.
