Games offer surprising health benefits

Video games have long been dismissed as a mere source of entertainment, often blamed for everything from poor eyesight to social isolation. But what if we told you that playing video games could actually have a positive impact on your brain and body? From boosting cognitive abilities to aiding in physical healing, the benefits of gaming go far beyond the screen. Let’s dive into the incredible ways video games can improve your life!

Key Benefits of Playing Video Games

1. Improves Multitasking and Cognitive Skills

Playing video games is a mental workout that helps develop critical thinking and multitasking skills. Gamers often switch between multiple tasks quickly, enhancing their ability to process information, solve problems, and make decisions under pressure. Studies from Rochester University show that individuals who play video games for at least an hour a day demonstrate faster reaction times, better concentration, and more developed strategic thinking than their peers.

2. Enhances Night Vision

Think video games will ruin your eyesight? Think again! Games like “Call of Duty” and “Quake” are actually known to improve night vision. The reason? Players need to notice subtle changes in the game environment, such as moving shadows and dark silhouettes, which enhances their ability to perceive shades of grey and see better in low-light conditions.

3. Helps Heal Vision Problems

Believe it or not, video games can also aid in treating serious eye conditions. By engaging with bright spots on the screen, players train their eyes to react to bright colours, improving visual acuity. Special video games are now being used as an alternative to traditional treatments for vision problems, helping individuals recover or improve sight in an enjoyable and efficient way.

4. Reduces Physical Discomfort

It turns out that video games might just be the future of pain relief. Research has shown that playing video games during painful treatments, such as burn recovery, can reduce sensitivity to pain by 30-50%. The brain, distracted by the game’s challenges, is less focused on sending discomfort signals, making the healing process more bearable.

5. Accelerates Recovery from Injuries

Video games aren’t just a way to pass the time – they can also speed up physical recovery. In Tel Aviv University research, patients recovering from hand injuries showed faster mobility recovery when playing video games. These games, designed specifically for rehabilitation, offer a more effective and engaging alternative to traditional treatments, without the side effects of medication.

6. Slows Down Ageing

Here’s a compelling reason to pick up a game controller: playing video games could help slow the ageing process. A study involving 681 people over the age of 50 revealed that those who played video games for two hours a day showed signs of cognitive ageing slowed by up to 7 years. This effect is similar to the benefits physical exercise has on the body, keeping the brain sharp and alert.

7. Boosts Memory

Want to improve your memory? The answer might lie in 3D games. Research has shown that playing 3D video games stimulates the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory. As a result, players’ memory improves by up to 12%. This finding could even help individuals struggling with memory issues in real life, offering potential benefits beyond entertainment.

8. Enhances Hand-Eye Coordination

Video games are a great way to improve hand-eye coordination, which is why they are often used in professional training. Surgeons use special video game simulators to practice precise movements in a controlled, virtual environment before performing real-life surgeries. Not only does this help in surgery, but games that require quick reflexes can also improve overall motor skills and agility.

9. Improves Critical Thinking and Cognitive Processes

Strategic and role-playing games challenge players to make quick decisions, solve complex problems, and think critically about their next move. This constant engagement with cognitive tasks helps improve focus, perception, and attention. These benefits aren’t limited to younger players – elderly individuals can also see improved cognitive processes through regular gaming.

10. Relieves Stress

Video games provide a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life. Whether you’re battling enemies in a fantasy world or solving puzzles, gaming can help you disconnect from reality and unwind. Many people find that playing games like Angry Birds helps reduce tension and lift their mood, making it an excellent tool for stress relief.

11. Enhances Decision-Making Skills

In many video games, players are faced with moral dilemmas that require them to weigh pros and cons before making a decision. The ability to think critically and make decisions quickly is a valuable skill that transfers well to real-life situations, whether at school, work, or in social scenarios.

12. Improves Reading and Focus

For individuals struggling with reading disorders, playing video games can provide significant help in processing information and improving concentration. Certain games have been designed specifically to enhance attention and cognitive focus, which can be especially beneficial for children with learning disabilities.

13. Develops Leadership Skills

Some video games require players to lead teams or make important strategic decisions under pressure. These scenarios help players develop leadership skills, improve their ability to think on their feet, and react quickly to unexpected challenges. These are essential skills that can be applied in the real world, whether in the workplace or in social situations.

14. Teaches History and Research

Many video games are based on historical events, which can serve as a fun and engaging way to learn about the past. Games like “Assassin’s Creed” have been praised for their historical accuracy, sparking an interest in history that many players might not have had otherwise.

15. Encourages Social Interaction

Online multiplayer games create a space for people to meet, make new friends, and connect with others who share similar interests. Gaming communities often lead to lasting friendships, and while it’s important to stay cautious online, these platforms can offer meaningful connections outside of the virtual world.

16. Provides Physical Exercise Certain games, such as “Wii Sports” and other virtual reality games, offer a surprising amount of physical exercise. These games can provide the same level of activity as walking at a moderate pace, which can be a great option for those looking for a fun and engaging way to stay active.