Bingo is a mainstay of senior centers and church socials. But did you know it also has proven benefits for seniors’ cognitive skills? Studies show that for those with Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, bingo games with large, high contrast cards improved thinking skills and memory. Experts of home Care, Clearwater families trust, suggest family caregivers to encourage their senior loved ones to get involved with this stimulating social activity.
University of Southampton psychology researchers found that bingo players performed better on tests of memory, speed, and cognitive function than those who do not play the game, regardless of age. The scientists speculate that because bingo players are required to maintain attention to detail over long periods of time, this focus increases their ability to understand and process information quickly.
A 2012 study, published in Aging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition, tested various types of bingo cards to find out which aided perception in seniors with diminished cognitive function. They found that the largest cards with largest type and highest contrast improved playing performance among this group, and that this increased cognition was also translatable to other activities. In fact, with the changes to the cards, those with mild dementia were able to perform as well at the game as seniors without dementia.
Beyond this research, experts have long been aware that games like bingo not only help keep all seniors mentally sharp, but provide the social interaction that’s also important for staving off depression and premature cognitive decline. Connecting with others gives seniors a sense of purpose and gives them something to look forward to. And, according to a study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior, seniors who have social interaction have a much slower mental and physical decline than those who do not.
Learn more about senior health from the experts at Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s home care in Palm Harbor. We can help you find a local senior center, recommend other mentally stimulating activities, or match your loved one with one of our experienced caregivers trained in the Cognitive Therapeutic Method.
Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method helps slow cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia through an activity-based program. Our caregivers help your loved one build a routine to look forward to, promote a sense of pride and accomplishment, and engage in more than 20 fun activities that boost mental acuity. Call us today at (727) 330-7862 to schedule your free in-home consultation.