Sample Blog Post #2

Most people consider “gamers” to be anyone aged 25 or younger, but don’t be fooled because many in the 50+ age group are now joining the world of “social gamers”.

According to the 2012 Pew Research Center survey, Older adults and internet use, more than half of American adults, 65 years or older, on now online. Well, most of these users primarily use email; the percentages are growing for those who are venturing into the unknown realm of the internet. Seniors, 50-64 years old, have stayed consistent with approximately 60-70% using the internet, but the number of internet users aged 65+ increased over 10% from April 2011 to April 2012.

In the 2010, PopCap Social Gaming Research, the average age of Social Game Players (SGP) in the US is 48 years, with 46% of users age 50 years or older. PopCap also profiled SGPs by Employment Status and while the largest group was Full-time workers at 41%, the Retired group came in second at 13%. In this report, approximately 70% of senior SGPs play games several times a day, while only 12% play less than once a week. The top three social games played by seniors are Farmville, Bejeweled, and Mafia Wars. Senior SGPs reported that ads on social networking sites as well as recommendations from family and friends assist in the selection of games played. They also reported that they play for fun and excitement, as well as playing to relieve stress.

Do seniors play online games just to pass the time?

Michelle Castillo of CBSNews reports that video games may be helping seniors to stay healthier. She writes that researchers from North Carolina State University found that the elderly, who played video games regularly, reported “higher levels of well-being, positive mood, social functioning, and better self-reported health than non-gamers.” Other research studies, as mentioned on WebMD, note that playing games can improve hand-eye coordination and decision-making, strategy games are best for “memory and cognitive skills”. In addition, the brain formulates new pathways when engaged in a variety of games than when only playing one game continuously.  

Seniors also find that social gaming helps them stay connected with others. Many seniors are homebound and social gaming allows them to interact with others in real-time multiplayer environments online. These online chats and conversations help with depression due to isolation from the outside world. Gail, a senior from Tennessee says, “I used to be so depressed and lonely until I discovered online game sites that let me play with real people at the same time. Social game sites have been a lifesaver for me, so many friends and so much fun!” - See more at: http://seniornet.org/blog/the-new-social-gamer/#sthash.kHP1gOrg.dpuf

In our reading, Video Games in Culture, it mentions that 59% of video game players are 6-65 years of age. The number “65” really caught my attention. I find it amazing that the older generation, those 60+ in age, is determined not to be left behind in the technological world. This is a great example of how technology can be adapted by those who use it. While many might not classify seniors as “hardcore” gamers they are definitely claiming their space in the online social gaming communities.