As the population ages and those getting older are more “tech savvy” than previous generations, it’s likely that sources of entertainment and enjoyment may shift as well. In fact, changes are now already evident, as reports show that older Americans have stepped up and into the “gaming” arena, having embraced a genre of entertainment that was once the province of mainly younger people. According to recent data from the Entertainment Software Association, 57 million Americans aged 50 and above are now regularly playing video games and make up ⅓ of all gamers in the US. Perhaps even more surprising, older women seem more involved in video game playing than older men- the gender breakdown among older players is 52% women versus 44% men. Moreover, the data revealed that half of all Americans in their 60s and 70s are playing some sort of game on their mobile phone, PC, or video console every week, and among those in their 80s, the percentage is still quite strong at 36%.

Why is it that so many older adults find themselves enthralled with the tech game world? The reasons given include the sorts of responses you might receive from a younger person: Playing a video game helps you unwind or relieve stress, helps keep your mind sharp, or simply just to have some fun! In fact, writing in a recent post for AARP, experts from the Northeastern University Games For Life Initiative made clear that older adults should not have to justify their time spent gaming or feel embarrassed by it. “Play does not need an ulterior motive,” they state, and these games can have a positive impact on your health and well-being, or just be “a vacation from your mind” if you want one.

What do we know about the impact of these games on the health and well-being of older adults? There is some research to support the cognitive and emotional benefits of video game playing. For example, a recent study published in Brain Sciences reviewed the existing evidence on the role of video games in improving cognitive performance in older individuals with some level of cognitive decline. The review revealed that older subjects showed significant improvement in cognitive functions, sleep quality, and psychiatric symptoms, supporting a positive role for video gaming as older adults face cognitive decline. Other recent research has found that video gaming can reduce stress and increase life satisfaction, can enhance short-term memory, and may even help reduce the risk of dementia. While more research needs to be done, there are compelling reasons why video gaming may provide real health benefits beyond the simple pleasures of enjoying the competition or networking with other online participants. It’s also an opportunity to create interaction and common ground with younger adults. For more on the potential benefits to be derived from gaming, grab your controller and click here.