Share Paper: Cognitive Benefits of Digital Games for Older Adults

  1. David Kaufman, Simon Fraser University, Canada
  2. Louise Sauve, Teleuniversite de Quebec, Canada
  3. Lise Renaud, Universite de Quebec a Montreal, Canada
  4. Emmanuel Duplaa, University of Ottawa, Canada
Thursday, June 26 4:30 PM-5:00 PM B1097

Abstract: Maintaining older adults’ vitality, independence and quality of life well into old age helps both older adults themselves and their societies. There is evidence to suggest that technology can provide people with meaningful and engaging activities that are stimulating, enjoyable and fun. In particular, technology-based games promise many benefits to older adults, but research evidence is sparse about whether and how these can be realized. This paper describes some key results regarding gameplay patterns and cognitive benefits reported from an early survey of 463 Canadian older adults who play digital games. The results demonstrate that numerous older adults are actively ...