The Benefits of Board Games for Seniors
Companion care at home provides essential support and socialization to seniors aging in place.
Many people link board games with childhood, game nights with the family, or informal get-togethers with friends. What they might not realize is that board games offer more than just amusement. For instance, playing board games can promote social relationships and enhance cognitive function for seniors. Knowing this, it’s a good idea for seniors, their loved ones, and companion care at home providers to break out the board games and enjoy a bit of fun.
Board Games Improve Memory and Cognitive Function
The potential of board games to boost cognitive functioning is one of the biggest advantages for seniors. Planning, problem-solving, and strategic thinking are all necessary for many board games, and these skills can preserve and even enhance brain function. Playing games like chess, Scrabble, or even more basic options like checkers can help strengthen cognitive functioning since they force players to think critically and act quickly.
Regularly engaging in these games with family and companion care at home providers might also help enhance memory. For example, memory-based games that require seniors to recall rules, patterns, or strategies work the brain’s memory regions. Seniors benefit most from this mental stimulation because it can slow cognitive decline and lower the likelihood of diseases like dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Board Games Encourage Social Engagement and Reduce Loneliness
Seniors frequently experience loneliness and social isolation, particularly if they are aging in place. A great way to foster and sustain relationships with people is through social contacts, such as those offered by board games. The camaraderie, conversation, and laughter can greatly reduce feelings of loneliness and enhance mental health in general. This is true whether seniors are playing with friends, family, or companion care at home providers.
Additionally, studies have shown that social activities like board games can lower symptoms of anxiety and sadness in seniors while also raising happiness levels. Also, frequent social contacts help seniors develop a sense of purpose and belonging, both of which are essential for mental health.
Board Games Enhance Coordination
Many board games require players to roll dice, shuffle cards, or handle tiny pieces. Seniors who engage in these activities can preserve and enhance their hand-eye coordination and fine motor abilities. This is especially true for those with arthritis or other conditions that limit mobility. Even slight physical activity like this can help maintain dexterity and flexibility in joints.
Board Games Elevate Mood and Decrease Stress
Board games are an entertaining and relaxing way to unwind and provide a break from everyday stresses. Playing a game requires focus, which can help divert attention from worries and anxiety and provide a mental respite. Additionally, laughter and companionship release endorphins, which are the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals that improve mood and lower stress levels.
Seniors who play board games on a regular basis can enjoy several benefits, such as better cognitive functioning, reduced loneliness, and more. Plus, it’s a good way to get additional family members involved. Additionally, when seniors can choose their favorite games to play, whether with companion care at home providers or with others, they gain a sense of control, which is good for their overall well-being.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home in Wilmette, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 948-0860. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette, and the surrounding areas.
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