Older adult gamers: patterns of use and opinions on the benefits of digital gameplay

In our current aging society, there is a need to focus on successful aging and increasing the quality of life of older adults to allow them to maintain independence and well-being. Digital games are a form of technology that could help. This study consisted of an online survey of 50 older adults (55+) who play digital games. Respondents were recruited primarily from online gaming and social media websites. The questionnaire asked about respondents’ characteristics, patterns of use, play with others, game choice, and opinions about the benefits and difficulties of digital games. There also was a specific focus on whether there were any changes in certain psychosocial, cognitive and computer skills. Cognitive abilities had the highest reported increases; however, connecting with others, which may improve social capital, showed an increase as well as computer skills. Cross-tabulations revealed a number of interesting relationships between specific variables that suggest areas for further research.