November 21st is National Game and Puzzle Week, and for many adults and children around the United States, one week just isn't enough to celebrate the physical and mental benefits of playing games. Everyone has their own favorite game, from board games to classic card games. While there's no wrong way to play games, there are distinct benefits that go along with playing games on your own as well as participating in interactive games as part of a group. Senior Helpers has all the information senior adults in the Richmond, Midlothian, Petersburg, and Glen Allen areas need to know about the mental health benefits of gaming.
The Cognitive Benefits of Solitary Games
For those who enjoy the pleasure of their own company, there's nothing quite as enjoyable as quiet time. For many, this includes playing some quiet games on your own. From card games like Solitaire to more inventive word games and puzzles, doing games on your own can provide a host of cognitive benefits. Some of these benefits include:
- Creativity. Working on word games or other puzzles on your own can sharpen your mind. Senior adults who love filling out puzzles in the newspaper or magazines might enjoy doing these games as part of their routine to improve their creative thinking skills.
- Relaxing. Introverts or those who don't find enjoyment in crowds often enjoy doing games on their own as a way of relaxing.
- Improved Focus. According to Happier Human, the ability to focus on your own thoughts can lead to better problem-solving skills as well as increased creativity.
The Benefits of Interactive Games
While there are undoubtedly benefits to playing games on your own, participating in interactive games in a group setting can also be very beneficial. Here are just a few of the ways that playing interactive games can enhance cognitive abilities and stimulate the mind:
- Increased Motivation. Playing games in a group can be a great way to boost motivation and drive to succeed.
- Problem Solving Skills. Strategy games are great for working the brain and encouraging players to think through various scenarios - which in turn works to sharpen the mind and enhance mental cognition.
- Builds Peer Relationships. Working alongside peers and friends to achieve a common goal can be a fantastic way to build a team mentality and enhance friendships. Even if you don't know your game partners well beforehand, playing a rousing board game is a great way to connect with like-minded people who also love the thrill of connecting over gameplay.
Senior Helpers Provides Premier In-Home Care Options
Senior Helpers Richmond West loves helping senior adults meet new friends and build new routines. If you are a senior adult or have a senior loved one looking for premier in-home care in and around the Richmond, Midlothian, Petersburg, and Glen Allen areas, we would love to talk to you. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer!