Why playing games together could stave off loneliness across generations
Why playing games together could stave off loneliness across generations
Why playing games together could stave off loneliness across generations
By Lois M. Collins
September 21, 2023
Summary
Games and other forms of play might help reverse the loneliness felt by older adults.
The number of older adults who describe themselves as lonely is "Drastically rising," with one-third of adults 50 and older saying that they often or always feel lonely or isolated.
AARP reported that "Playful activities such as board gaming, can be helpful in creating meaningful connections with others." In its survey, 60% of adults 50 and older said playing board games helps them to connect with others - true especially among women compared to men.
Things might get easier at an older age; research suggests that people feel more comfortable in their skin as they get older, so any unhappiness decreases.
Nearly half of the older adults who were surveyed said they'd like to play board games more often, a finding especially true among those who describe themselves as often lonely or isolated versus those who say they are not.
The group, which included Fischer, marketed innovations under Hasbro's Joy for All brand - and started with All Companion Pets, which were robotic cats and dogs that didn't need to be fed or walked, but that interacted with older people in ways that provided some companionship.
Each of those popular, classic games has been redesigned to feature visual touches like larger typefaces that are easier for older eyes to read and that meet the needs and interests of the older adults, while encouraging intergenerational play within families.
Reference
Collins, L.M. (2023, 21 September). Why playing games together could stave off loneliness across generations. Deseret News. https://www.deseret.com/2023/9/21/23851355/playing-board-games-together-stave-off-loneliness-older-people-generations