Video Game Benefits: Study Says Beneficial in Ageing

Most elders are not updated with the trend, especially in technology. They are behind in using computers and smartphones. However, the trend is changing as some parents engaged themselves in playing video games like Candy Crush for past time.

A new study suggests that elders should play video games as doing so could aid in one's ageing. The Interactive Games and Entertainment Association (IGEA) has released the Digital New Zealand Report 2016 which reveals that video games are "beneficial for positive ageing," 3 News reports.  

The report claims that 43 percent of New Zealanders over 65 engage themselves in video games, compared to 32 percent in 2013. On the other hand, the average age of gamers has gone up to 34 from 33 in the last report.

Individuals over 50 are the fastest-growing segment in the gamers' population, which Professor Jeff Brand of Bond University and lead author of the study described as something that shows that "New Zealanders are increasingly using games as a preventive measure to healthy ageing and the benefits are undeniable."

The study found out that 84 percent of the adults admits that playing games improves their thinking skills, 70 percent agree that video games enhance their mental stimulation, 76 percent finds that it improves coordination and dexterity and 47 percent claims that games help fight dementia.

A separate study from North Carolina State University two years ago, also learned about the positive effects of video games  to elderly. The study suggests that "elderly people who play video games—even just occasionally3are more social, better adjusted, and less likely to be depressed than their nongaming peers," The Mary Sue has learned.

Elderly who engaged into a little bit of electronic entertainment experienced higher levels of well-being and were less likely to be depressed compared to those who never played. The said study suggested a link between higher levels of happiness and satisfaction, and playing video games but they were yet to find out such link.

The recent study observes the growing trend of video game and they learned that 48 percent of Kiwi players watch gameplay videos online. However, 15 percent puts more effort by creating walk-throughs that they can share with others.

"What this means is that video games have become a mainstream activity in New Zealand, and they are a game-changer in the way New Zealanders consume digital and interactive media. Two thirds (67 percent) of the population play, and video game devices are present in 98 percent of New Zealand family homes," Professor Brad said.

Some of the points in the study includes: video games are not just for boys as 48 percent of gamers are female and that it's a perfect  family and social thing. Seventy-nine percent of parents play with their children, while 26 percent adults play online games with their partners.