Can Gaming Slow Mental Decline in the Elderly?

It is an interesting idea, but I am a firm believer. I have recently witnessed two of my own family members in advanced age play on the Wii system by Nintendo. Let me talk about the Wii for a little bit. First off, it is WONDERFUL. It is an intuitive gaming system that allows young and old to play, and even compete, together. It is fun, catchy, and even boasts games that challenge you to exercise for a higher score! Other video game systems, with million of controller buttons and violent game play are not as cognitively stimulating on the Wii. Games such as Wii fit, Wii play, Wii Sports are great for family get-togethers and friendly competition. I recently saw my own grandmother (who was avidly against all games and gaming systems) playing Wii with my 3-year-old nephew. We all gather around and cheered them both on.

In the end it was a great family experience that brought us closer together, and an excuse to come see each other again! Now-a-days get-togethers are spent laughing and socializing while we all edit our Mii (a personified icon that you can create yourself to look like anyone you know!) and go to the bowling alley without ever leaving our house.

I found the best online deal for the hot selling Wii system, games, and controllers here: Enjoy them for a lifetime!




Many times we see video games altering the mind. We see the studies, the aftermath, the news reports that all blame video games for influencing their behavior. Up until now, behavior can be influenced for the good. We can harness the things video games do to us! Improvements in activity, cognition, and motor skills can now be enjoyed by the elderly and the young alike. Time magazine has an excellent article on this very issue!

Can Gaming Slow Mental Decline in the Elderly?

It's an interesting concept, but one I firmly, firmly hold.

I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to see Wii systems in every nursing home as a therapudic activity. Probably multiple systems!

What is your favorite Wii experience? What Wii game do you like to play? What Wii game would you like to recommend? Let us know!