Senior Care in Irvine CA
What is the first thing that you think of when you hear the words “video games”? If you are like many people, your mind immediately jumps to preteen and teenage boys spending hours in darkened rooms forgetting about the world around them as they lose themselves in their virtual worlds. The truth, however, is that this is far from the reality of the actual gaming world. While this stereotype absolutely exists, the demographic that enjoys playing console, computer, and even mobile video games is far larger, encompassing all sexes, races, classes, intellects, and even ages. In fact, recent studies have shown that regularly playing video games could have far-reaching benefits for aging adults.
Some of the ways that encouraging your aging parent to use video games as part of their regular routine could enhance their quality of life include:
- Improve multitasking. While some people contend that there is truly no such thing as effective multitasking, being able to process more than one train of thought at the same time is an important part of life. This type of skill is utilized in everything from cooking to bathing to managing finances, and will help your loved one stay safe and maintain greater independence. Playing video games encourages use of several types of thought patterns at the same time, such as having to control a small vehicle on the screen while also looking for instructions along the way and reacting to them.
- Strengthen memory skills. Playing games, especially those specifically designed for brain health, encourages your parent to not only form new memories, but to constantly recall memories as well. They may need to remember the storyline of the game, the instructions that they read, or the right combinations of commands. Whatever they need to do, these actions help to keep their mind sharper, stronger, and more responsive.
- Social wellbeing. Many elderly adults suffer from isolation and loneliness due to not having as much social interaction as they did when they were younger. Over time, this can translate into “forgetting” how to socialize. By playing games with others, such as you, your children, or a senior care provider, your parent keeps their interaction and connection skills developed so that they can gain benefits from regular engagement.
- Physical benefits. While many of the benefits of playing video games focus on the cognitive and emotional improvements offered by these games, there are physical benefits as well. Studies have indicated that playing video games can strengthen the portions of the brain that control walking, improving balance and gait. For those who choose games that have a physical element to them, such as interactive sports games, they can also burn calories, strengthen muscles and joints, increase balance, and boost heart health.
For many elderly adults, one of the greatest benefits of senior care is companionship. The social engagement of older people tends to decrease as they age due to diminished social circles, relocation, and challenges and limitations that impact their ability to engage with the world around them. This can leave them suffering from isolation and loneliness, which can lead to depression, anxiety, decreased self-esteem, and reduced motivation. A senior home care services provider, however, can be there to support your aging parent, offering valuable social interaction and mental stimulation through a variety activities, such as playing video games together. Through this customized approach to care and enrichment, your parent can enjoy a higher quality of life throughout their later years.
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Newport Beach CA, please contact the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today! 1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
Source:
http://www.wired.com/2013/09/video-game-elderly/
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/computer-games-give-seniors-balance-benefits-study-shows/
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