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https://theconversation.com/how-we-can-use-gaming-to-support-positive-ageing-and-support-our-relationships-with-our-pets-too-186554>
"Margaret, 63, loves playing online Scrabble everyday with her sister who lives
interstate. The online game allows a playful way to keep in constant contact
when geographically distant.
Tom, 70, discovered the joy of Wordle and sharing his daily outcomes with
friends. Penelope, 67, gets online to play Roblox games with her grandchildren
who are living interstate.
These are just a few examples of the many ways older adults are gaming across
Australia.
During the pandemic lockdowns, games were not only spaces for everyday
creativity and informal literacy, but a way to socialise and keep fit – both
mentally and physically. So much so that, in 2020, the World Health
Organisation acknowledged the communicative and social power of games for
wellbeing.
Even though the typical gamer is middle-aged woman, ageist stereotypes about
gamers continue to circulate, reflecting broader inherent ageisms embedded
within Australian culture.
Maybe we could turn this problem on its head. Perhaps we could use games to
empower ageing and ageing well, creating bridges between the generations – and
even improve our relationships with animals while we’re at it."
Share and enjoy,
*** Xanni ***
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mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
