At first glance, bingo just looks like fun. However, seniors can receive quite a few health benefits by playing this game. As you discuss activities for your senior loved one to engage in, consider these reasons bingo should be listed on his or her calendar.
1. Enhances Memory Retention
It’s important for seniors to keep their minds stimulated so they can retain their cognitive abilities. Bingo requires seniors to listen as numbers are called and remember them while they search for them on their cards. Doing this repeatedly strengthens a senior’s short-term memory abilities, which may delay the onset of dementia and other age-related challenges.
Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Fort Lauderdale families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
2. Strengthens Hand-Eye Coordination
Many seniors play multiple cards during their games. Moving between each card quickly to mark the numbers is a great way to boost hand-eye coordination, and using the markers also loosens up tight joints. This type of movement makes it easier for seniors to manage other parts of their daily routine, such as preparing meals.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands, a leading provider of home care. Fort Lauderdale Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
3. Prevents Depression
Playing bingo helps seniors stave off depression. During bingo games, seniors get the chance to mingle with other adults, which prevents feelings of isolation. Since seniors must concentrate on the numbers being called, bingo also helps them take their minds off their problems.
4. Provides an Outlet for Friendly Competition
After retirement, seniors sometimes find they lack the excitement that comes with pursuing goals. Seniors with health conditions that limit their abilities may also miss other activities such as hiking or fishing. Bingo is an activity that’s accessible to everyone, and it provides the same thrill that comes with engaging in other types of competition.
5. Boosts the Immune System
Playing games can lift a senior’s spirit, which relieves stress and boosts the immune system. As seniors have fun, they enter a state of relaxation that eases inflammation throughout the body. Over time, less inflammation and reduced stress allow the immune system to function properly so seniors experience fewer illnesses and recover faster from minor injuries.
6. Offers Opportunities for Socialization
Seniors need to spend time socializing with others, and bingo makes it easier, since everyone is engaging in a shared activity. Whether a senior goes to a community game with a companion or chooses to play online, he or she gets the opportunity to talk to other people. Maintaining social ties helps seniors maintain a positive attitude, and expanding their social circles can increase their overall wellness.
Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust homecare professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she manages an illness and performs the daily tasks of living. Reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care today to find out how we can help your elderly loved one.
