88 year old Audrey Buchanan starts her day with a morning routine. This routine consists of going into the kitchen, pouring herself a bowl of cereal, and opening up her Nintendo 3DS XL. This type of handheld gaming device is her entry into the gaming world. And she is not alone in this. Video games have been gaining popularity among seniors. Seniors are sometimes stuck at home. Therefore, their social life suffers and loneliness can ensue. Video games can not only keep seniors socially connected, but they can keep them mentally sharp as well.
According to NBC News, Audrey mainly plays a video game called Animal Crossing. In this game of colorful neighborhoods and unique animals, Audrey says it feels like company when she otherwise is alone. She is even able to connect her Nintendo device to her grandson’s, so they can play together from across the country. Currently, she has put 3,500 hours into her game so far. And she says she has no intention of stopping. “I don’t want to disappoint my animals”, she says with a laugh.
While video games are generally associated with younger generations, older gamers make up a good portion of the industry’s consumers. A 2016 AARP study showed that 38 percent of Americans ages 50 and over played video games. And half of the respondents said they played more video games than they did five years ago.
With their often complex controls and fast paces, games can also provide mental stimulation. This can be beneficial to seniors in potentially slowing onset of dementia and cognitive impairments. However, video games can offer far more benefits than just health related ones. Seniors are able to interact with fellow gamers. Some have even gained a following on platforms like YouTube.
Overall, the main benefits of video games for seniors include some combination of remaining socially and mentally active. Audrey’s grandson, who she regularly plays Animal Crossing with, says her gaming habits have been very positive for her. “As long as I can do it, I’m going to do it”, explains Audrey.