Do you know what my favorite part of the game is? The opportunity to play.

Mike Singletary

Introduction

Board games are a must for any household with children. Toy stores are shelved with board games, ranging from the old classics to the new favorites. There are games that help develop cognitive abilities, emotional skills, strategic thinking, and whatnot. Based on the age recommendation on the box, parents are all too happy to quickly to stock up on them.

Sounds familiar?

There’s just something missing. For some reason, the focus generally seems to be on children. Maybe they’re a better audience to market to. But, the truth is that all ages have the ability to benefit from these boxed wonders, including your elderly parents.

Why You Should Play Board Games with your Parents

Fun

Games are, almost by definition, fun. While you or your parents may not enjoy every game, there are many that may be enjoyable to you both. Try some trial and error. You’ll know you got a winner when you have a great time together.

Discussions

Games make for wonderful discussions. The relaxed atmosphere and upbeat mood can set the stage for good dialogue. If there’s something specific you want to talk about, the game offers an opportunity to raise the topic in a by-the-way fashion. If you’re creative enough, you can find a way to bring up the point naturally, as it relates to the game. Finally, if you don’t know what to talk about, the game can serve as a conversation starter. So, unless you’re discussing something that requires a more serious setting, go for it.

Health

Playing board games frequently, is good for your memory. According to the Guide To Senior Living, published in the Hudson Valley Business Journal [1], in 2007, “In 2003, a study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people who participated in activities such as board games, reading, playing a musical instrument or working a crossword puzzle were less likely to develop dementia than were people who said they engaged in those types of activities rarely or not at all.”

Conclusion

Board games have value for all ages and seniors are no exception. The three reasons outlined in this post, describe how playing board games with your elderly parents, can improve their (and your) lives.

What have you found the last time you played a board game, with your elderly parents?

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

[1] 2007. “When you rest, you rust! Keeping seniors’ minds on the move.” Hudson Valley Business Journal 18, 12. Complementary Index, EBSCOhost (accessed February 8, 2018).