Board games are fun for people of all ages and can evoke cherished childhood memories. For older adults in particular, board games provide meaningful ways to connect with others and offer some unique mental and physical health benefits.
At The Avenues Crofton Park, we recently acquired a new chess set for our senior boutique living community. Residents are quickly warming up to the game and in addition to being entertained, they are learning new skills, having fun socializing with friends and neighbors, and improving their quality of life.
Encourages Social Interaction
Board games bring people of all ages together and are a great way to connect and engage with others. They encourage teamwork and healthy competition, which in turn may help reduce feelings of loneliness, isolation, and even depression. Board games are natural conversation starters and a great way to break the ice and build friendships.
Improved Physical and Mental Health
Laughter is said to be the best medicine and the spirited enthusiasm and camaraderie that board games can arouse help release endorphins, which promote muscle relaxation, lower blood pressure, and boost immune response.
Mental health can be improved by playing board games, too. It’s hard to feel stressed when you are having fun with others, focusing on something besides your worries. Playing mentally stimulating board games makes you think and can even boost your self-confidence—a win-win. And nothing feels better than the thrill of success.
Improved Cognitive Function
As we age, it is important to challenge our brains and strengthen our natural ability to focus and stave off cognitive decline. According to a decades-long study, seniors who play board games regularly, tend to stay mentally sharper than those who don’t and score better on cognitive tests in their 70s. Playing chess, for example, teaches your brain to think strategically because players have to focus on their opponent’s every move and be able to adapt their strategy to win, or one wrong move and it’s checkmate!
Well Played
The Avenues staff strives to support residents’ interests and hobbies, especially those we know will promote socialization, strengthen community bonds and encourage new friendships. We are always on the hunt for fun-filled activities and new games we can introduce that encourage residents to gather and socialize because we know how important it is to their physical and mental health.
Ready to get your retirement game on at The Avenues Crofton Park? Call 720-799-0915 today to check out our senior boutique living community and calculate your next move.