In a study of 11 older patients, researchers found playing certain computer games was just as effective at reducing symptoms of depression as the “gold standard” antidepressant drug escitalopram. Moreover, those patients playing the computer games achieved results in just four weeks, compared to the 12 weeks it often takes with escitalopram (also known by its brand name, Lexapro).
These results may not be conclusive due to the small numbers of patients surveyed but consider the cost/benefit and wouldn’t it make sense to at least try some of this?
The game itself doesn’t need to be complex but what could be developed to assist in health promotion is extraordinary. I have been asked repeatedly by government interventionists in the last week about games studios who are interested in tackling problems like dementia. It seems there is a market need so why not supply it?
I gave my mum an iPad earlier this year. She and her friends all now swap tips and tricks about what games they like to play. A couple of them even play against each-other. Candy Crush and Suduku appear to be favorites.
If, with some research, a game can be designed to help some of these symptoms, it would have to be a success. The older generation are seeking out these applications.