A new study on motion gaming, video games that involve frequent movement such as playing games on Wii and Kinect gaming systems, finds that elderly individuals can benefit physically and emotionally from these fun activities. Video games that allow seniors to participate in previously enjoyed activities such as tennis, bowling, and golf are particularly helpful in improving health.
According to a study by the Gerontological Society, virtually engaging in previously enjoyed activities increases life satisfaction, decreases reported loneliness, improves mood, and increases physical activity. Seniors also reported feeling “more apart of things” and more connected to the younger generation.
Another study by the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine found that playing Wii helped treat seniors with depression. More than a third of participants reported a 50 percent or greater reduction in depressive symptoms.
Even infrequent motion gaming sessions have been shown to improve balance coordination and strength, all of which are useful in preventing falls.
This week, Twin Town Villa Assisted Living of Breckenridge, Minnesota took to the lanes in the National Senior League to compete against other seniors from across the country in bowling. Twin Town Villa was one of several communities at Welcome Home to participate in the event. They are competing against 144 teams from 24 states. Bowling began this week. Each team will be competing in a conference of 8 teams and play each team in the conference one time. The 7 weeks of league competition culminates with 3 weeks of playoffs structured like the NCAA Final Four – 64 of best teams in 32 brackets. Winners move on and losers go home. The championship match is schedule for April 27th. Follow the action right here for weekly results, highlites and features.
Follow Twin Town Villa’s Incredi-bowls progress on their Facebook page. They’ll post pictures of their “meets” and of their team picture with their new bowling shirts on in the coming days!
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