Wordle with its stacks of green, black, white, and yellow squares has become not only a source of entertainment and a social connection but also provides brain stimulation. Wordle has been a big hit on social media, and the buzz is creating quite a reaction amongst seniors. What benefits can seniors expect to get from Wordle and other online games? Keep reading to learn more!
Benefits of Wordle & Online Games for Older Adults
What is Wordle?
The rules of Wordle are simple, and the aim is to guess the daily five-letter word. Color-coded blocks are incorporated into the game to help players figure out the word. The game gives you six chances to guess the word of the day. Wordle is simple, fun, and just hard enough to test your cognitive skills and become a daily challenge.
One benefit of Wordle for seniors is that because it is so popular, solving it can quickly become competitive among friends and family. Seniors can play together and test their abilities against each other on their cell phones or tablets. Or, they can try Wordle Together online where anyone can play against another willing player. For those times when a fun group game is in order, watch for the Wordle board game coming from Hasbro which is anticipated to be on sale in October 2022.
How can Wordle benefit older adults?
Intellectual engagement may benefit the brain, according to the National Institute on Aging, which recommends keeping the mind active. Seniors playing Wordle can experience a brief but fulfilling release from stress and worry. As your ability to concentrate improves and your brain devises solutions to find the right word as quickly as possible, you leave the outside world behind and immerse yourself in the puzzle at hand.
Boosting your Brain Health with Online Brain Games like Wordle
When someone has dementia they may have trouble with memory, thinking, reasoning, or even language barriers. Losing these skills can make it difficult for people with dementia to perform their day-to-day activities.
While there’s no cure for dementia, some treatment options can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. For example, people often discuss the idea of using memory games, such as word and number puzzles, to help stimulate the brain. But what does the research actually say about the role of brain stimulating games for dementia?
Games are among the many activities that can keep the human mind entertained and engaged. But more importantly, games can help keep our brains stimulated.
Board games
Board games can help improve cognitive functions such as memory, communication, and emotional regulation.
Video games
Video games can be customized to directly target different cognitive abilities, such as memory and reasoning.
Virtual reality games
Virtual reality (VR) games can provide both cognitive and physical reinforcement, depending on the type of game.
Video games encompass a wide variety of electronic games, from traditional desktop computer games to games on newer systems like the Wii and Switch. Also, let’s not forget cell phone and tablet brain games. These types of games are increasing in popularity among older adults especially.
Brain Training Games
Research supports the theory that specifically designed brain training games may enhance cognitive functioning in older adults. Especially in areas such as visual recognition, visual memory, and attention.
If you’re an older adult who has never played video games before but is considering giving them a try, here are some good options to start with:
- TETRIS – available on many platforms
- Candy Crush Saga, online or mobile
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch
- Wii Sports on the Nintendo Wii (it’s great for exercise too!)
- Any mobile or app version of classic word games, puzzles, card or dice games, and board games
A word of caution: Beware of games that offer in-app purchases or require subscriptions.
Adult Gamers vs Younger Generations
Younger generations tend to dominate the gaming industry. However, older gamers, particularly seniors, tend to play games more frequently. Over one-third of gamers that are 65 and older say they play some type of game every day or almost every day. Senior gamers may play more frequently because they have more time to play than younger gamers.
Try these 10 Games and Puzzles to Exercise Your Brain!
Promedcare
Our goal is to keep you or your loved one healthy, happy, and safe at home. The Promedcare team of management and caregivers understands the importance of providing care within the comfort of one’s own home. Families choose Promedcare for different reasons. For some, it’s to provide extensive ongoing care for an aging senior. For others, we offer a much-needed break or, respite care – such as a night out with a spouse, vacation, or simply a few hours of quiet time at home – for family members who provide regular care. We offer a wide range of care services customized for each individual client. Promedcare services include Personal Care Services, Companion Care Services, Dementia / Alzheimer’s Care Services, and Respiratory Solutions.
Contact us today to see how Prodmedcare can help you!