For several years, board games have proven to be the best boredom busters. Whether it's a family get-together or a night out with old friends, when everyone sits around a board and moves pegs as per rules, you can be assured of unlimited fun.
While such games are hugely popular among children, young adults, and even a few middle-aged people, they might seem to be silly for senior citizens (above 60 years of age).
Senior adults might avoid board games under the impression that they're not fit for their age. However, studies show that they couldn’t be more wrong.
Mirror | People above 60 years of age can often find board games silly and confusing. But they might offer several benefits to them
Playing board games can allow older people to connect with others and keep themselves entertained. Moreover, they even offer psychological benefits.
Don’t believe us? Well, here are some board-gaming benefits that will blow your mind.
Read – Fun board games for seniors
The more, the merrier
People play games for various reasons, but passing the time or entertaining oneself tops the list. Since board games are multiplayer games, they automatically boost social interaction. You can use them as vehicles to spend quality time with your loved ones or overcome social anxiety. By hanging out with old friends and enjoying time with grandkids, you can avoid feeling lonely and depressed (moods common among senior citizens). And what could be better than a game to start a meaningful conversation, right?
Stress buster
Many renowned people regard laughter as the cheapest and most effective medicine. And playing fun games is the perfect way to laugh out loud. When you play such games, your body releases endorphins, which lowers your blood pressure level and strengthens your immune system, making you feel more cheerful. People who suffer from anxiety should play board games more often as it distracts them from their everyday struggles.
NBC News | Board games prove to be the ultimate stress-busters for senior adults
Encourages better brain functioning
Memory loss is a common problem when you've crossed your sixties. Playing board games can keep you on track by enhancing cognitive skills. Board games that involve numbers, alphabets, shapes, and words can help promote better brain functioning. They can keep your mind sharp. Also, some studies have shown that engaging in such activities can keep you away from diseases like Alzheimer's or Dementia.
Boost dexterity
With age, performing simple tasks can be challenging. You might need to focus a lot to achieve small things like signing a document or counting money. However, by playing board games, you can improve this condition. When you move your game pieces or shuffle cards, your mind and body coordination improve, giving you complete control over your actions. Moreover, specific games like "Jenga" focus on increasing a person's skills, so if you want to improve yourself, you can try them too.
Read – Games that boost dexterity
Caring Senior Service | Games like Jenga focus on increasing dexterity and body-mind coordination
Summing it up
They say age is just a number. Keep that in mind and remember that you're never too old to enjoy the things you love. Especially when these things come bearing such good benefits, we’d suggest you practice them regularly.
