Video games at home have existed since the 70s, meaning lifelong gamers are getting older. We often think of video gaming as an activity for kids through young adults, but there are plenty of older adults who enjoy it. As the population of gamers continues to grow older, there are some important things to consider about their daily care.
How Video Games Can Help Older Adults
Video games are an ever-expanding medium for telling stories, exploring worlds, and doing the impossible. For many gamers, it is a way to escape and explore new things. Playing games can also help improve hand-eye coordination, keep brains active, and help retain memory. For aging adults, these can all be essential aspects of healthy activity for your brain. Additionally, some studies show that people who regularly play video games are less likely to develop dementia symptoms as they continue to age.
Accessibility Functions in Gaming
Video games today are more accessible than ever. Most games will offer features to help people read the screen more easily and play despite disability. From text-to-speech to color blindness or high-contrast options, aging gamers have options. Some accessibility features can also turn off certain aspects of the game that may feel more taxing to players, which can take away some of the “chores” of the game.
Protecting Your Hands
The joints in your hands take a lot of wear-and-tear damage over the course of your life. For people who game, this damage can be even more likely. Carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis are more common in people who play video games regularly than those who do not. As a result, aging gamers should invest in their hand and joint comfort. Ergonomic controllers, mice, and keyboards can be helpful. Wrist braces and joint creams can also help relieve pain.
Back Support for Aging Gamers
Proper back support is also an essential part of aging well while gaming. Below, we will discuss ways to improve your back support while gaming.
Desk Gaming & Back Support
If your setup is at a desk, consider investing in an ergonomic chair. This can help improve posture and spinal realignment. Lumbar support is especially important. Standing desks, which can raise or lower with the push of a button, can help you adjust the height to be more comfortable. You want your arms to naturally rest on the desk and for your shoulders to stay up. This will help ease back pain while playing.
Living Room Improvements for Back Support
Whether you sit in a recliner or on the couch, you will also want more back support in the living room while you play your games. Firmer seats may not feel as luxurious, but they provide better comfort and back support in the long run. Consider adding a lumbar support pillow when you sit to game. Lap cushions can give you a comfortable place to hold your controller without putting direct pressure on your thighs from your arms.
Support for Gaming in Bed
Most households have a TV in their bedroom. And many people will set up their gaming console there to play while in bed. OR they may play a handheld system while lying down. While your bed can be comfortable, it can be impractical to stay lying down all day. Consider investing in a backrest pillow with neck support, or a wedge pillow to provide additional support. For many older adults, bedsores can be a major concern. Spending too much time lying in the same position can be unhealthy. Be sure to shift around as needed.
Taking Breaks
Like it or not, you probably can’t play games for as long as you used to, even if you are retired now. Take a small break every hour or so to get up and stretch. Be sure to take the time to hydrate as well. Vitamin D is also important at every age, so take time to be outside in the sun every so often.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
