Video games are gaining attention beyond recreational use. In recent years, researchers have started examining how gaming may benefit cognitive health, particularly in older adults. As people live longer and seek ways to maintain mental sharpness, video games have become an unexpected yet promising tool.
Gaming and Movement: The Example of the Wii
When the Nintendo Wii was introduced in 2006, it brought something new to home entertainment. Its motion-sensitive controller allowed players to physically interact with games that required arm movement, balance, and coordination. Activities like virtual bowling and tennis encouraged users to stand, reach, and move.
It didn’t take long for people to realize that older adults were actively participating. The design of the Wii made gaming more accessible and engaging for individuals who might not have considered it otherwise. Even in its early days, senior living communities began using it during group recreation time. A 2009, a NPR article highlighted one retirement center that held regular Wii bowling tournaments, which quickly became a popular event among residents. The console gave them a reason to move, interact socially, and have fun.
Cognitive Benefits: Processing Speed and Brain Function
Beyond movement, the cognitive benefits of gaming have become a growing area of research. In 2013, researchers at the University of Iowa studied the impact of a brain-training video game on adults aged 50 and older. Participants who completed ten hours of gameplay over several weeks showed noticeable improvement in processing speed. The researchers estimated that these gains could delay cognitive aging by several years. The game involved tasks that required players to respond quickly and track multiple items at once, skills associated with everyday mental functioning.
These research findings are contributing to an ongoing conversation in medicine about how to protect brain health as people age. One area of focus is executive function, a group of mental skills that includes planning, decision making, memory, attention, and self-control. These abilities are essential for managing everyday responsibilities, but they often begin to decline in midlife. Activities that require quick thinking, visual processing, and hand-eye coordination, such as video games stimulate the brain and support cognitive performance over time.
A 2023 study compared the cognitive impact of playing video games versus board games. The findings indicated that individuals who regularly played video games performed better in several areas, including planning, mental flexibility, visual processing, and both verbal and visual working memory. Researchers concluded that video games may have a stronger influence on overall cognitive performance than board games, partly because video games require players to adapt quickly, process information in real time, and navigate changing environments.
Other recent research supports the idea that novelty and immersive environments play a role in cognitive improvement. A study published in Behavioural Brain Research recruited adults between 60 and 80 years of age and assigned them to play either a familiar game (Solitaire), a two-dimensional novelty game (Angry Birds), or a three-dimensional platform game (Super Mario). Participants played for about 30 to 45 minutes daily over a four-week period. All groups began with similar memory test scores. However, after two weeks, those who played Angry Birds and Super Mario showed better recognition memory. By the end of the fourth week, the Super Mario group showed continued improvement, and the gains were still present even weeks after they stopped playing. The researchers suggested that a combination of novelty and spatial engagement might contribute to the long-term cognitive effects observed.
Introducing Games to a Loved One
Introducing video games to an older loved one may seem intimidating at first, but it can be a practical and enjoyable experience. You do not need the latest equipment to get started. Many mobile phones, tablets, and computers can run simple games that support memory, attention, and logic. Puzzle and matching games, for example, are often available for free or at low cost through app stores or official websites.
For those who prefer physical controllers or more immersive experiences, older consoles like the Wii or handheld gaming devices can often be found secondhand. These systems offer a wide range of games and can be an effective entry point. Consider helping with setup and selecting games that match the person’s interests and abilities. This approach can encourage regular use and reduce frustration with unfamiliar technology.
Aging Well with Mental Engagement
Cognitive decline is not inevitable, and regular mental stimulation can make a meaningful difference. Video games are one tool among many that support brain health. They encourage concentration, rapid decision-making, and engagement with new challenges. For some older adults, especially those who are homebound or have limited access to social events, video games can also provide structure and stimulation in a familiar environment.
At Pillar Patient Advocates, we help individuals and families manage the aging process with confidence. If you have questions about cognitive changes, early signs of memory loss, or where to begin looking for support, our board-certified patient advocates are here to guide you. We connect people with resources, explain options clearly, and help ensure that your health needs are met with dignity and care.
