Video and computers games often have a bad reputation. If you grew up playing video or computer games, how many times did your parents tell you that you would “rot your brain,” or they were worried it would interfere with your intelligence?
Jump ahead a decade or two, and you probably turned out just fine, right? While too much gaming and certain types of games can negatively affect your brain, we’re going to focus on the positives when it comes to playing video and computer games.
Video Games for the Developing Brain
Children can benefit from playing video games but to get the most out of them, it’s suggested that parents set up some time limits, monitor play time, and choose age-appropriate games. Keep in mind that the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends that children between the age of 2 and 5 only have one hour of screen time a day.
Most of the games on the market for children are developed to help improve and strengthen certain skills such as hand and eye coordination and problem-solving. As a child plays a video game he or she getting smarter.
Playing a video game changes the brain, much like learning to read or even using a map. A combination of concentration and rewarding surges of dopamine help to make the neural circuits in the brain stronger. Some children are fine-tuning skills, and that’s often not taught at school.
Whether your child plays an education video game or one where there are multiple roles to play, he or she will benefit from playing on a regular, yet structured, basis.
Gaming as You Age
For years, being a “gamer” as an adult was criticized as it was often viewed as being lazy, anti-social, and unhealthy. These days, as VR headsets, mobile gaming, and other types of gaming consoles are becoming popular, video games aren’t frowned on as much. In fact, they are seen as a way to relax and clear your head after a long, stressful day.
Whether you play puzzle games or games that will help you get active, you’re likely to think and feel better after a little screen time. Believe it or not, casino games are good for your brain too, because they sharpen skills like mental math and stimulate the brain overall.
Just make sure you choose games that will boost your brain activity. Slots are fun, but they aren’t the most brain-boosting casino game.
Read some online casino reviews to help you find the best games for your brains, such as poker or blackjack.
Gaming for Seniors
While your elderly relative may not get the same enjoyment as you do from playing your favorite console game, senior-aged individuals can benefit from gaming, too. Although some of the brain-training programs that were so popular a few years ago have mixed reviews, any type of game that can keep you thinking and learning can help an older brain function properly.
One of the great things about video games these days that there is a game suited to fit any type of interest or hobby. Like to solve puzzles or play a sport? There’s a game for that, and it will keep your brain fit.