Does Digital Gaming Enable Healthy Aging for Community-Dwelling People With Dementia?

Abstract

This article critically explores the benefits of commercial digital gaming technology for healthy aging of people with dementia. Research with community-dwelling people with dementia has highlighted the need for enhanced access to nonpharmacological interventions to support social engagement. Commercially available technologies offer a means to engage people with dementia. This article expands on this body of knowledge by assessing the benefits of digital gaming on healthy aging for community-dwelling people with dementia who have participated in a series of Tech Clubs using Apple iPads, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo DS. Findings from this study demonstrates that use of digital gaming technologies promotes lifelong learning; optimization of mental, physical, and social stimulation; and independence, all of which promote the agenda of healthy aging.

Exploring Community Inclusion in Older Adulthood through the Use of Computers and Tablets

“…(2016) have shown, participants with dementia were able to learn complex movements and button combinations that relied on mental, physical, and fine motor skills. Their study participants were also able to develop this learning to acknowledge and correct mistakes, even before they were pointed out (Cutler et al, 2016). The findings of this study suggest that participants displayed a willingness and desire for continued learning, which shows that people with dementia are keen and able to partake in novel activities and learn new concepts, all of which are beneficial to their healthy aging (Cutler et al, 2016).…”

“…According to Liechty and Genoe (2013), using the Internet as a leisure resource helps older adults cope with retirement and the distance from their former social networks. Furthermore, some researchers also have found that digital gaming contributes to older adults social capital and provides three distinct benefits that promote healthy aging and independence for people living with dementia (Cutler, Hicks, & Innes, 2016).…”

“…These benefits include the promotion of lifelong learning; optimization of mental, physical, and social health through stimulation; and increasing independence (Cutler et al, 2016). The Internet therefore, can function as a means of communication, an opportunity to meet new people, and a convenient way to keep up-to-date with modern times (Sourbati, 2009).…”

“…By providing ICT programs and education sessions, TR practitioners can stimulate positive learning outcomes with their older adult clientele. Specifically, as Cutler at al. (2016) have shown, participants with dementia were able to learn complex movements and button combinations that relied on mental, physical, and fine motor skills.…”

Development of a Reminiscence Therapy System for the Elderly Using the Integration of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

“…Cutler et al [1] employed a highly interactive mobile platform to enhance the communication abilities and positive emotions of elderly people. Through incorporating digital somatosensory games into reminiscence therapy, the researchers effectively enhanced users' healthy daily living activities and intergenerational interactions within their families, thereby generating positive perceptions.…”