Do video games help with aging?

Rare_Cauliflower_330 · 2026-07-18T15:39:27+00:00

I am (f54) mostly a tabletop gamer. I also like playing PC and mobile games. I noticed that my interests have really changed though. I used to play RPGs (Eye of the Beholder) and a few console games like Little Big Planet and FFX/FFX2 (my faves). Now, I tend to play"old person" games like HOGs and solitaire. I just don't really have the interest much. My husband and adult children are gaming every free moment they have. Our kids are constantly talking with their online/gaming friends. This makes me feel like an oddball and left out. My daughter keeps trying to get me to co-op with them. I finally gave in and got me an XBox and Blizzard accounts. We played the new Diablo last weekend. It took a while to get the hang of the controllers, but it was actually fun. My daughter kept laughing at my ineptitude. I finally feel like I am part of the family. In a compromise, they play DnD with me and my friends on the occasional Saturday.

TL;DR

Gaming can be a good way to connect as well. I would suggest co-op games that can also be played on your own. Diablo, Little Big Planet, Minecraft, Heroes of Might and Magic are a few.

TC_Stock · 2026-07-18T02:22:14+00:00

learning to play a musical instrument is likely going to challenge your brain more than gaming.

haveagood1 · 2026-07-18T02:18:37+00:00

Have since Pong/2600 no reason to stop now.

SidKafizz · 2026-07-18T01:37:37+00:00

Fuck yeah. Find your genre if you can enjoy yourself. I'm in my 60s and video games are my escape from reality. I play mostly solo games, but there are exceptions.

Arvid38 · 2026-07-18T00:50:01+00:00

I’m 51f and never stopped gaming. Started with my Atari 2600 and still rocking it with my PS5. I dare anyone to tell me I’m too old to game lol.

Educational_Fox2212 · 2026-07-17T21:47:19+00:00

We’re the video game generation! We were there from the beginning with Atari and arcades. I’ve never given it up, in all its forms. I still play with my kids who are adults. It keeps the mind sharp and the brain entertained. I have a standing Saturday night video gaming session with my brother-in-law for almost twenty years and still going strong. Game on!!!

TurnItOffandOn26 · 2026-07-17T19:58:00+00:00

I still play video games. I dont have as much time as I used to but I find they help me relax. They better have video game consoles in the nursing homes for us. I will refuse to play bingo.

Twisted_Spinster · 2026-07-17T19:24:19+00:00

I've been a gamer for over half my life but on PC, not console. I love all sorts of games. While they can be a time sink, so long as you're still getting your day to day things done, spend your free time doing what you enjoy! Find games you can play with others and make some new friends too.

VeeLund · 2026-07-17T17:08:51+00:00

I use gaming systems to relax (mostly Minecraft in peaceful mode) and to build back up my brain power using puzzle games like picross/nonograms. I’m 54 and it helps me a lot.

Photocat71 · 2026-07-17T16:14:03+00:00

If you really want to work on reflexes, muscle memory, critical thinking, and hand/eye coordination... Rocket League. You can play on any console, or PC. Rocket League is basically soccer with customizable Rocket powered cars.
I'm almost 55. Grew up with Atari, moved on to arcades as a teen. Raised kids that loved gaming. Particularly on Nintendo in the late 90's. Fast forward many years after divorce.. living with boyfriend. Pandemic and his sons are with us for the weekend. We had been playing left 4 dead, and borderlands with them. His youngest had apparently seen the game had become free to play. He downloaded it before going to bed, unbeknownst to us. The next morning we saw him playing and we're like.. "what in the world are you playing?". Needless to say, we had to buy more consoles so we didn't have to share a screen. The boys are much older and don't visit as much, but boyfriend and I have played nightly since 2020.

dongdongplongplong · 2026-07-17T14:04:40+00:00

watched this interview with a 91 year old zelda player the other day, she seemed pretty spritely and with it to me! certainly better than doing crosswords https://youtu.be/wcZRU4Qxh20

SallySitwell3000 · 2026-07-17T13:20:34+00:00

YES!! I started gaming when my grandma showed me Burger Time on Intellevision II. Shark shark, B17 Bomber - one of the very first video games with voice in it!! Auto racer. Man that was fun. So I stuck with it my whole life and now have a liquid cooled gaming PC I built last year. Definitely overkill but it never gets hot!
I have so much fun and games like assassins creed have super fascinating and immersive story lines.
You might also like Horizon Zero Dawn, the main character is a woman who’s trying to figure out what happened. Hunter gatherer tribes, but the lands are riddled with mechanical animals!! It’s super neat. Anyways I hope you do get a gaming console or PC, you will not regret it!

Beyond_Re-Animator · 2026-07-17T12:49:21+00:00

I’m 60 and LOVE gaming! Get back into it! The problem solving, excitement and action keep you stimulated. There are so many choices available too. And some of the best IP that GenX loves, Indiana Jones, Star Trek, Star Wars, James Bond, Robocop have amazing games out now that are better than any of the recent movies/TV shows that have been developed for those titles.

vin4thewin · 2026-07-17T11:32:27+00:00

They absolutely help with aging. Hope you get back in the game!

Saguache · 2026-07-17T10:07:24+00:00

I have found that they help coping with all the bullshit.

Braehole · 2026-07-17T10:07:09+00:00

I’m 50, get a gaming PC, and play with a controller on Steam.

herbal_thought · 2026-07-17T09:06:11+00:00

61M and recently played Breath of the Wind, Tears of the Kingdon, Link's Awakening, and Echoes of Wisdom. All were great fun.

daddyd · 2026-07-17T08:27:28+00:00

puzzle games, adventure games, that sort of thing, they require some thinking. benefit of these is that most of the time they are not that taxing hardware wise, so you could probably run them on your pc/laptop you have right now.

StrangeCrimes · 2026-07-17T07:57:45+00:00

I can't stop playing Ghost of Tsushima. It's like playing a Kurasawa movie. I'm on my sixth playthrough, and it never gets old. I think it does keep you sharp.

Roofofcar · 2026-07-17T07:42:38+00:00

On the older side. Playing a metric ton of Warframe and Mycopunk.

Between those and quiz shows, I feel as sharp as I’ve ever been.

Melil16 · 2026-07-17T06:44:33+00:00

I still love games too! (55) Go for it- I just bought a ROG Ally- though I’m sure as hell still sick to death of having to kill things to get through a game! It’s so boring. Expedition 33- it’s sure is pretty but boring 🥱 .

StG4Ever · 2026-07-17T05:03:42+00:00

60, I can still wipe the floor with young people in shooters.

dudeatwork77 · 2026-07-17T04:19:38+00:00

Bruh, you’re 57. Do what you want to do. It’s ok if you’re addicted.

Sonic_The_Mnemonic · 2026-07-17T04:07:05+00:00

Aging? No, it won’t “help” with aging. ;-) But cognitive decline? Yes, gaming may help prevent cognitive decline. Just to be 100% clear, aging ≠ dementia. While fluid intelligence (like quickly learning a new language or a dance) may decline in older adults, crystallized intelligence (like recalling facts and practicing well-rehearsed skills) holds steady, and can even improve. Using video games to keep your mind engaged, active, using hand-eye coordination, mental rotation, visualization and short-term memory etc. should in theory be beneficial ( I mean,Tetris has some impressive uses for PTSD that are strongly empirically supported, so video games definitely can have positive cognitive effects). Just make sure you don’t overplay, stay physically active, and don’t play games that make you feel depressed or aggressive. (And if you’re using a VR system…don’t trip over your furniture; it happens more than people like to admit). Other than that? Game on.

Edited to add: YES. Empirically supported. “From the papers reviewed, it emerged that older subjects
trained with video games showed a significant improvement in cognitive functions, sleep quality,
and psychiatric symptoms, positioning video games as an intriguing and useful tool.”

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/cb1b/08e5e8ed37897382fb080354026e070669b5.pdf?_gl=1*8goyjm*_gcl_au*MTk0MzU1NzI3MS4xNzgyNjg2Mjky*_ga*MTc1NjQxODYzNS4xNzgyNjg2Mjky*_ga_H7P4ZT52H5*czE3ODQyNjEzOTckbzUkZzAkdDE3ODQyNjEzOTgkajU5JGwwJGgw

Late-Criticism-7078 · 2026-07-17T03:56:40+00:00

53 and I occasionally still play SkyRim and Madden. Super Tecmo Bowl on Nintendo & Gauntlet arcade game back in the day.

herbwannabe · 2026-07-17T03:45:23+00:00

50F and i play a lot of single player ps5 games. Hand eye coordination, puzzle solving. More active than vegging out in front of tv.

Asa-Ryder · 2026-07-17T03:29:45+00:00

Game on! I’m 54 and it’s one of my many self care activities.

Zantheus · 2026-07-17T03:24:57+00:00

I'm 47 with a PS5. I've been playing Street Fighter for 30 plus years and I've achieved Master level for most characters in SF6. I only play for a couple of hours after work to de-stress while sipping on an icy glass of gin and tonic or a nice glass of wine.

thiswasyouridea · 2026-07-17T03:22:11+00:00

I was just now playing Minecraft and then came here.

HolyHandGrenade_92 · 2026-07-17T03:13:01+00:00

absolutely. every computer owner needs at least TWO video games. this is for/to release stress, etc. thing is, you don't have to play 'new' games with high hdw requirements, 1000s of games will run on your system w/out an upgrade. doctors say- puzzle games help older minds stay sharp, look into these. gl!

brawnburgundy · 2026-07-17T02:42:51+00:00

I’ve been playing video games since the Atari 2600 came out and I don’t plan on stopping. I think games can be great for the mind and it can be a lot of fun.

What games did you enjoy in the past?

Skitzafranik · 2026-07-17T02:33:10+00:00

I think so, as it keeps the mind active. I can’t speak for others, but I’ve been playing video games since Atari , and have never stopped 😁
I’m in late 40s ! 😁

esp735 · 2026-07-17T02:29:50+00:00

Similar boat. I don't play video gameS. I play one video game at a time. I like FPS MMOs, and I know my current fave (Battlefield 2042) is not going to be supported on my ol' X Box One much longer.

Not sure what the plan is, but I might switch to PC or, like you, give it up.

Regarding the addiction, that's why I do the MMO thing. No long term character development, combos, or complicated whack-a-mole dungeon crawler. Just blowing up real people but for pretend. I unwind for an hour or so before bed or slug it out with a bunch of 14 year olds on a Sunday morning. (No mic or headphones) I'm not good or anything. Just persistent!

Eldritch-banana-3102 · 2026-07-17T02:23:35+00:00

I do a bunch of stuff on Meta Quest 3 - exercise, puzzles, travel, games. I believe there has been research about these and the “aging” brain.

octopus_serenader · 2026-07-17T02:01:54+00:00

The hand-eye coordination of fast-twitch games can be good, but there's a lot of cool mechanical puzzle games out there too.

progwok · 2026-07-17T01:33:08+00:00

Helps keep the brain active depending on the game.

CopperCreator3388 · 2026-07-17T01:10:34+00:00

Previous generations worked crossword puzzles , jigsaw puzzles etc. Now it’s video games, VR games, playing musical instruments etc. Learning new hobbies works a specific part of the brain.
Due to several relatives that have had dementia, I take a triple boron supplement.
Protection of the elasticity of the brain is important. Enjoy as many hobbies as you can.😎☕️

RSallieGrace · 2026-07-17T01:09:51+00:00

50+ GenX here....I play Overwatch and I run scholastic esports in my state.

Thuban · 2026-07-17T00:54:35+00:00

I'm a old dude 60. I've been gaming since 95 with Doom and Dark Forces. No I'm on Stalker, and Helldiver's and a couple others.

Multiplayer used to be awful. Teanagers calling everybody names and just being assholes. It's gotten better though. Now there's more a of co-op vibe and I have some good friends I enjoy taking to and playing with.

invertedsaint_666 · 2026-07-17T00:51:03+00:00

I definitely think they help keep your mind engaged and sharp. I still have my PS4 but the last games I played were Red Dead Redemption 2, GTA 5, Tom Clancys Wildlands and MLB 23 so it's been a minute since I've played anything. Been thinking about getting into something like Bloodborn, Assassin's Creed or God of War.

Been thinking about getting a PS5 but I just haven't pulled the trigger cuz like you I' get addicted and my only free time is late in the evening so if I sit down and start playing a game at 8:00 or 9:00, I'll end up playing til 1:00 am or later lol

j4yne · 2026-07-17T00:48:32+00:00

I use gaming as stress relief. When I get caught up in what the Stoics call rumination, gaming helps to break that and clear my mind. In fact, the harder the game, the better -- it doesn't matter if I'm "winning" or "losing" according to the gameplay, it's the intense narrow focus required to win that brings me a little peace.

I like to think it helps with brain aging as well.

Chu-Narik · 2026-07-17T00:44:45+00:00

Get in the game girl!

pandagirl47 · 2026-07-17T00:42:17+00:00

55 and I literally took a day off work to stay home and play the new Assassin’s Creed game.

GwonWitcha · 2026-07-17T00:30:47+00:00

Start with a new ps5, and the God of War game that came out in 2018…you’ll adore the story and gameplay.

Read-up on/watch videos of the preceding versions to catch up on the story & lore…or even just play them.

But the 2018 one is so so so good all around.

Electrical-Bobcat435 · 2026-07-17T00:17:20+00:00

Fellow GenXer here, yes, by all means resume! Just budget your time, all things in moderation.

Not only will it help your brain and coordination, the stress relief... Whether from bashing enemies or exploring an amazing world.... Whatever your fancy, will probably add years to your life. To say nothing of making friends thru them.

What's the alternative, if TV, well you are just passively absorbing, brain sometimes engaged.

BlownCamaro · 2026-07-17T00:06:13+00:00

Yes! I game every single day to keep my brain sharp. So much better than watching tv when you just stare and are not a participant. However, none of my friends in my age group do. I really wish they would at least try it. I do flight sims and racing sims mostly with some Fallout 76 thrown in.

Typical_Version_7487 · 2026-07-16T23:48:43+00:00

I’m 52 and recently started playing Witcher 3 and I’m loving it.

Purple-Construction5 · 2026-07-16T23:28:26+00:00

Been playing Helldivers2 on the PS5 over the last 1.5 years with around 1100 hours on it.

Still enjoying gaming but lack patient now for RPG style games

RamonaLittle · 2026-07-16T23:24:08+00:00

I feel like my brain is slowing down

Have you ruled out health problems? Any number of things can cause mental slowness. Some are treatable and some aren't. One of the most common nowadays is "brain fog" from covid/long covid. Which it turns out is actual brain damage.

_x__Rudy__x_ · 2026-07-16T23:12:23+00:00

I'm racing online in Mario Kart 8 on the Switch. Usually with friends I've met through the game (we use Discord to chat), but sometimes on the Regional or Worldwide tournaments. I'm the oldest one in our group (although they don't know it). I'm a lousy racer, only...I find I often keep up or beat many players, on a good night. I got into Nintendo on the original NES console. My youngest grew up playing the GameCube and Zelda: Wind Waker. She sometimes hops into the traces, and trounces many of us. 😂

Never too old to play a game, regardless of what plaform/console you use!

corq · 2026-07-16T23:06:15+00:00

56F and while I mostly play strategy games; but sometimes I'll play shooters. This will sound funny but I enjoyed the portal games and I'd have to really use my visual observations and short-term memory to make progress. For some reason my brain would feel "thoughtfully" stimulated for hours after. I'm mostly into 4X but proudly a filthy casual 🌴

Sudden_Fix_1144 · 2026-07-16T22:56:48+00:00

Yes!!!! My dad was Silent Gen and was a big player of video games….. back in the day he was invited to play in our work AOE II game. Fucking trounced all of us…. He was 63 at the time.

Nyxgirlfren · 2026-07-16T22:55:40+00:00

Wife and I are 56 and 53. We have a PS4, PS5, and a Oculus. We both love playing games on the weekends when we dont have plans.

Conscious-Secret-775 · 2026-07-16T22:54:43+00:00

You never need to move on from playing video games and yes playing video games does have cognitive benefits. As for what you should buy, probably a PS5. It will play all your old PS4 games and current PS5 games. If it were me I would buy the PS5 Pro because why not.

BikingAimz · 2026-07-16T22:52:17+00:00

I’m 52 and my husband is 64 and we met on vanilla WoW. We now have pcs and ps5 Pros, gaming absolutely keeps our minds active and engaged! We’re deep into AC Shadows, and platinumed Ghost of Yotei, also got into The Division 2. I’d much rather be addicted to gaming than something more passive like watching television? And you can add time limits to your gaming rig if it starts interfering with work/other life priorities?

The above said, if you want to get back into it, pricing in memory and graphics cards aren’t great, and Sony just announced they’re canning physical game copies, so you might want to buy a console or PC sooner rather than later.

Far-Chemical-707 · 2026-07-16T22:51:06+00:00

> female
> plays video games

LIES!

BuckyRainbowCat · 2026-07-16T22:36:56+00:00

I (48F) love gaming! I think I would say that one of GenX's character traits (to the extent it's accurate to generalize) is that we reject the notion of "putting aside childish things" once we are adults. I wasn't sure that was what you meant when you said you felt you needed to move on from playing video games, but just in case - there's no age limit on doing stuff you like!

I play a lot of pretty casual games on my phone and tablet, merge games, match 3 games, block puzzle games, fashion doll dressup games. I won't bother to name any names because most of these are sort of engaging for maybe a month or so at best until they either become repetitive, the levels become too hard unless you pay to play, or I lose interest in them for some other reason.

For console games, I must have played Witcher 3 about a gajillion times. The thing I like most about it is that it is a very story-driven, "choices matter" kind of game. That contributes a lot to its replayability because you get different endings and different choices depending on what choices you made earlier in the game. It gets pretty dark and violent though, so it's not for everyone. Other "choices matter" style games I have really enjoyed are the Dragon Age series and the Mass Effect series. Witcher 3 and Dragon Age are sword & sorcery genre, Mass Effect is sci fi. The console I use is a ROG Ally, which is a handheld device that runs Steam games.

i-am-your-god-now · 2026-07-16T22:36:39+00:00

It’s better to be addicted to something that keeps your brain and hand-eye coordination active than it is to…well, not. lol

When my mom first started declining from early onset Alzheimer’s, that was one thing I tried getting her to do. I found some fun puzzle-based games and set those up for her.

I’m 37 and I’ll never let go of my video games. I fully believe that they’re great for keeping your mind active. (Assuming you’re playing games that actually make you think and strategize, or course.)

salamandah99 · 2026-07-16T22:31:22+00:00

My dad played Skyrimm and really enjoyed it. He was 82 when he died and I think he played pretty consistently until about a year before his death

Danthrax81 · 2026-07-16T22:29:25+00:00

I'm 44 and an avid competitive gamer and my reflexes test at approximately equivalent of a 20 y.o. athlete.

Helps with fast and efficient decision making and neuroplasticity as well

0_IceQueen_0 · 2026-07-16T22:28:55+00:00

I play on the Xbox. Currently on Diablo 4, Assassin's Creed and COD. I also am subscribed to Gamehouse playing time management games when I'm particularly stressed. Those Diner Dash type of games keep my brain preoccupied so I don't think of what's stressing me out. Kept my sanity after my divorce lol.

princess23710 · 2026-07-16T22:12:02+00:00

I like the ones that solve puzzles(ish). Currently playing Arrows on my phone. It makes you use your brain. Not quite the same as a console game but a bit of fun instead of doom scrolling.

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mistersquawk · 2026-07-16T22:01:19+00:00

Yes, video games will totally help you get older.

badllama77 · 2026-07-16T21:56:57+00:00

Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) | (.gov) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11274634/

Oh_Witchy_Woman · 2026-07-16T21:51:57+00:00

48 and also play games nightly. I think it keeps my brain flexible when the fog is bad.

Trandoshan-Tickler · 2026-07-16T21:51:02+00:00

I find that playing games helps keep my old fingers a bit more nimble, especially on a keyboard. I try not to play hours on the though as my hands will start hurting.

goldnboy13 · 2026-07-16T21:50:44+00:00

Cozy gaming has definitely helped me with depression and loneliness. Animal Crossing, Pokopia and Disney Dreamlight Valley are lots of fun

GreyBeardEng · 2026-07-16T21:35:23+00:00

I would say definitely yes. Puzzles action reaction, story, etc all keeps the brain active.

Piccoroz · 2026-07-16T21:17:37+00:00

If it wasn't for videogames I wouldn't have recovered from my broken wrist.

PGHNeil · 2026-07-16T21:12:41+00:00

I turn 57 today and I am still going on my XBOX ONE S nightly as Batman. It beats going postal in public. /s

Seriously, I used to play Wii sports and Minecraft with my youngest 10 years ago and I like to think our shared interest in building both scratched my itch for 3D/CAD design and inspired him to take up a major in architecture.

Also, in playing almost all the Assassin’s Creed games has also inspired me not only to appreciate architecture but take an interest in history as well. I have enjoying virtually exploring the Great Pyramid and Notre Dame and as a result have also taken real life tours of the Vatican and the Colosseum and other landmarks in Rome in the company of my son and can’t wait to visit when he studies abroad in Florence next year.

MarchCompetitive6235 · 2026-07-16T21:11:55+00:00

Anything that uses your hand-eye coordination and keeps your brain working is great for "cognitive maintenance".

jdjbr85 · 2026-07-16T21:05:48+00:00

I LOVE playing - I am 57 also - #girlgamer and was gifted a ps5 bc my ps4 was run into the ground - lol

I do it to relax after a rough day (pretty much every day) and I can play for an hour and it chills me out 🤷🏽‍♀️

@momofthree85

I play Telltale games, Fortnite, I’m waiting for The Expanse telltale game to come out also - I have played spider man, stray, and other games but I can’t remember the names 😂🙋🏽‍♀️

meatballmonkey · 2026-07-16T21:03:29+00:00

Get a PS5 and a switch2 and enjoy life!!

9trystan9 · 2026-07-16T20:52:45+00:00

Any puzzle solving on a regular basis improves cognitive development

FzzyCatz · 2026-07-16T20:48:21+00:00

I have a Steamdeck and I enjoy playing some games as a nice distraction.

FrostedMoon8888 · 2026-07-16T20:36:29+00:00

I play WoW and plan on playing forever. I am not as addicted to it as I once was but I have other things going on. I can play while I watch movies or audiobooks, or if I am lucky play with friends at odd times. For me it’s a hobby that’s part of my social life sometimes, at least when my friends play, but always looking for more friends there. I think it’s good for me overall.

StOnEy333 · 2026-07-16T20:36:14+00:00

Even puzzle books and crosswords help to keep your mind sharp. Video games absolutely would help in this area.

AreWeFlippinThereYet · 2026-07-16T20:30:21+00:00

61F love my Switch 2, helps me destress

Fast_Drink_9516 · 2026-07-16T20:26:15+00:00

Go for a walk

OGMom2022 · 2026-07-16T20:25:53+00:00

I wish I could game but it triggers my anxiety and I end up worse than I started. 😫

triphawk07 · 2026-07-16T20:25:02+00:00

I'm 52 and I've been playing video games since the Atari 2600. Currently own a PS5, Switch 2 and Steam Deck. Video games are great to not only keep my reflejes sharp but is a way to escape the BS of life. I also play video games with my kids (they're in their 20s) and enjoy those moments and the banter that we throw each other.

ZettaiGeek · 2026-07-16T20:05:22+00:00

I am 58m and play Fortnite every night. I play anywhere from 1 to 5 matches a night. I usually get 1 Blitz win about every other night with a regular no-build win every 3 nights or so. Still having fun gaming since Pong and Atari VCS. I have a PS5 and Xbox Series X near the TV but I am almost always gaming on my PC.

Outrageous_Plum5348 · 2026-07-16T19:55:59+00:00

Absolutely, word, sorting, and number games are shown to help keep the brain nimble. Not sure about the games like Candy Crush.

Asleep_Fix3900 · 2026-07-16T19:52:10+00:00

51m in the same boat however I have a brand new gaming laptop & xbox with many games & an emulator with every console & games for retro games but i don't turn them on, very addictive lolz but Im half way there with 2 devices that play AAA games turning them on is the next step haha ✌️

SurlyJohn009 · 2026-07-16T19:50:26+00:00

I'm a 57M, good age. I have a PS2 and PS4 just sitting around. I'm keeping the PS3 and PS5 for now.

If you want the PS4, DM me. I have some games with it, I'll send you a list of everything I'll include.

Sawyer2025 · 2026-07-16T19:49:20+00:00

I played fortnite with our kid and still play it today. I only play for about 30 minutes in a day I play. While familiar, they change things up all the time. We played Far Cry, Destiny, etc. I don't get addicted to it, but on a snowy or rainy day I might play a few games. I considered upgrading my PS4 to a PS5 but I may wait on the PS6 since I really don't game that much. I did change the hard drive to a 2 TB solid state to make it boot faster and hold more.

justkreeping · 2026-07-16T19:48:36+00:00

Been playing since I turned 50 nine years ago. The more active the game is, the more smartters I feel😁😁 . But it also makes me more aggressive.

Wetdogg72 · 2026-07-16T19:47:06+00:00

My doctor recommended it.. hand eye, cognitive function, etc.. there’s always a line between not enough/too much of course..

Amazing-Software4098 · 2026-07-16T19:41:38+00:00

There are a whole constellation of things that can help to slow cognitive decline. Reading, puzzles, physical activity and social engagement, etc.

My group isn’t active at the moment, but that’s one of the things I love about TTRPGs. You’re doing a bit of basic math, being social and creative. That alone checks a few boxes.

TapeFlip187 · 2026-07-16T19:24:58+00:00

I play Sky Children of the Light like every single day haha. It's really beautiful, it makes me happy, it's an escape from my day, and it's fun to use my brain differently.

And it's on hella different platforms so I can play on my phone if I'm away and my son can join me from his PS5. My mom plays on Switch sometimes too.

DumberBlonde · 2026-07-16T19:21:21+00:00

I'm a 55 year old woman and I play Diablo 4 and DayZ with my 2 siblings, and about 7 of my nieces and nephews and their friends.

ETA: After reading other people's comments, I feel compelled to add this.

I started out with Pong. Then my family got an Atari, and after that the NES, so I played Super Mario Bros. Then there was a gap where I partied a lot and didn't really game.

Later I got into EverQuest and played that for about 7–8 years. Then Skyrim came along, and I fell in love with Skyrim.

Then I got into Neverwinter, which is where I met my husband. We've been together 10 years this November and we still couch co-op Diablo 4.😄

Sorry for the long ETA!

diamondgreene · 2026-07-16T19:21:11+00:00

they want you to think that. I think we all better off reading a book or talking to peeps rather than swiping screen.

PossibleDiscipline90 · 2026-07-16T19:14:52+00:00

I'm 56 and have been playing the Sims since their very first game. My son also sells consoles and games so I get to play pretty much anything I want. I mostly play PC tho. I think it keeps the mind sharp and it's fun at the same time.

DiddlyBoBiddly · 2026-07-16T19:09:10+00:00

The old adage is use it or lose it. About to be 60 and here are a list of thing I will not give up without a fight: video games, guitar, motorcycles, laughing at dumb politicians and celebrities, sex. If I need glasses, medication, or a three-wheeler, I am not stopping until there is just no way to continue. This isn't just being stubborn. If I end up in a nursing home, I am taking the Xbox. Thing is, time doesn't stop and we are all going to die. My goal is to live this life. If I want more tattoos, I'll do it.
Time enjoyed is never time wasted.

storm_the_castle · 2026-07-16T19:03:45+00:00

Thing is I can get addicted to them.

What's the downside?

Time enjoyed is time well spent.

RunRunRabbitRunovich · 2026-07-16T19:03:18+00:00

51 and have played Animal Crossing for decades 😂🙋🏻‍♀️ absolutely love Animal Crossing and I love puzzle games and mystery/horror. My husband has been watching FIFA World Cup constantly so I play my Switch

SenseEuphoric5802 · 2026-07-16T18:59:59+00:00

I sold my PS4 five years ago because I felt I needed to move on from playing video games.

As a 55 year old I've been gaming since I was 8 years old. First most of the consoles, now PC and a ridiculously large Steam library of 'not yet played' games is my forte. Sometimes emulation when nostalgia strikes.

My opinion is.. who the fuck cares? I'm done chasing after the shiny object American capitalist society demands we all must chase after so it can function properly. I'll do what I damn well please, and playing video games is it. The rat race is for rats.

Do what makes you happy and content and ignore everyone who makes you feel you must move on for whatever reason. Video games are excellent for the brain, cognition, reasoning and keeping the mind active and engaged. Not so great for the body, gotta work on that too. They better well have video games in the nursing home and you touch my controller and I'm gonna spit in your morning laxative and hide your dentures.

rocketMoonApe · 2026-07-16T18:57:35+00:00

Stardew valley on the iPad a few hours a week for this exact reason. 🙌

idrathern0tsay · 2026-07-16T18:57:22+00:00

59 and have been gaming since the 70’s. Have Xbox and ps5, and occasionally play a game on a pc.

ScreaminEagle2502 · 2026-07-16T18:57:21+00:00

I'm 56M and still play FPS games on PC. I get my butt kicked nowadays because my reflexes are slower, but it's still fun. I think it helps with hand-eye coordination.

PhonedZero · 2026-07-16T18:55:07+00:00

53, have a full blown racing sim rig plus my consoles, and spend 2-3 nights a week on with my friends. Bills are paid, wife is happy and IDGAF what anyone else thinks.

JenLiv36 · 2026-07-16T18:48:41+00:00

I’m 50 and game everyday. I hope nobody shamed you. If you are getting everything you need to get done in life there is no reason not to game as much as you want.

People scroll their phone for hours, watch movies, sports, TV…which is more passive(nothing wrong with that btw). I’m just saying it’s an outdated idea that video games are for kids, that video games are a waste of time or unproductive. There’s a lot of benefits to playing video games.

Princess_Jade1974 · 2026-07-16T18:47:39+00:00

I'm a few months shy of 52, I've never been much of a gamer (comic book nerd) but I'm actively tying to get into gaming as I get older and retirement creeps up on me XD

Curious_Owl78 · 2026-07-16T18:46:27+00:00

47 here. I love to game.

I like PC. You can do Steam or XBox online.

I like Steam, since it allows me to play games from different consoles (except Nintendo).

NC_Ion · 2026-07-16T18:45:54+00:00

If you don't want to get a newer system you can always get one of those retro handheld one that have a bunch of older games on them.

RogersMrB · 2026-07-16T18:44:44+00:00

I feel my brain slowing down since moving away from highly intelligent, and vulgar friends. Moved for career.

I feel having something or someone challenging you, and making you learn keeps your brain active and alive.

In my case I need highly intelligent people to swear creatively with.

CzarGuy111 · 2026-07-16T18:43:13+00:00

Yes do it do what u enjoy their is no age limit on that …

Frosty-Clothes7551 · 2026-07-16T18:37:10+00:00

If it is something that you enjoy, keep doing it. I understand the addiction to it. I have a problem with cross stitch… I would rather do it than socialize with others.

No-Alternative6566 · 2026-07-16T18:34:46+00:00

I have always played games and always will, our generation have grown up with the medium and it is just another form of entertainment. As a 50 year old man I prefer playing narrative/adventure single player games over watching movies or TV, I like to feel involved and engaged with what I’m doing. Games are good for you, keep playing.

bmyst70 · 2026-07-16T18:30:14+00:00

I love playing those but I've heard a good way to keep your brain working well is to learn another language.

I'm guessing video games benefit the brain by keeping you engaged as long as you're not playing one enough that you can play it mindlessly.

lumpy4square · 2026-07-16T18:29:40+00:00

I’m still rocking Final Fantasy IV online. I can log on an hour or all day and always have something to do. Right now Im discovering ALL the fishing holes in the game. I hate sitting at a desk so I gave my pc hooked up to my huge tv in my bedroom and play from the comfort of my bed. And I’m a 57 year old female too:)

NekoTheSpookieCat · 2026-07-16T18:19:36+00:00

I feel like they do. I’m the same age as OP, and while I don’t play as many console games as I would like, we still use our PS4. I do have arthritis in both thumbs (I blame all those Mario Cart marathons I played in my 20’s 😂) so I don’t play many action type games anymore.

F-Cloud · 2026-07-16T18:17:36+00:00

I think about aging a lot and it's stressful. When I play video games for hours, I completely stop thinking about aging, so yes it helps.

YellowBreakfast · 2026-07-16T18:13:32+00:00

I sold my PS4 five years ago because I felt I needed to move on from playing video games.

Sorry.

Hope it wasn't because some a-hole shamed you.

As long as it's not interfering with other parts of your life, who gives AF what you use for entertainment?

not_a_moogle · 2026-07-16T18:12:20+00:00

I don't play as much as I used to, but I still enjoy it more than just sitting on the couch watching TV.

SharpPhilosopher3734 · 2026-07-16T18:10:17+00:00

I’m 60 and enjoy playing racing sims and hunting games. Just do whatever is fun and wholesome.

ValgalNP · 2026-07-16T18:09:28+00:00

My kids keep telling me it does help. Got me into Hogwarts Legacy because I’m a huge Potterhead. I really love it. Can’t say if it will help but I’m going with that for now.

Diocletion-Jones · 2026-07-16T18:09:07+00:00

Learning is a muscle. Learning new game mechanics and applying critical thinking to solve puzzles in a game is always going to help your cognitive abilities, just the same as doing physical exercise will have slow your aging physical degradation. There's studies backing this up. Use it or lose it.

RMDVanilaGorila · 2026-07-16T18:08:26+00:00

Turned 53 today and I will die with a controller in my hand. Gaming definitely helps keep my mind sharp.

Mike93747743 · 2026-07-16T18:08:03+00:00

Stardew Valley. Pierre is a bad man.

Seawolfe665 · 2026-07-16T18:05:08+00:00

61 and I play almost daily. Right now Im seriously into Tears of The Kingdom on my Nintendo switch. The previous game Breath of the Wild was also fabulous. They are both SO beautiful. And you can play at your own rate and pretty much however you like. Im awful at fighting, but I love the puzzles and exploring.

I also love playing Enshrounded on my gaming PC - its this big beautiful open world that you can play with friends or solo. You can make the game as hard or easy as you want, and the building is SO MUCH FUN.

Im sure its not as good for me as going out and excersizing a couple hours a day, but it is social and engaging and has a lot of problem solving and creativity.

tindalos · 2026-07-16T18:04:41+00:00

One question - did YOU feel you needed to move on, or did society tell you to feel this way?

Games an engaged stress relief that improve coordination and speed and focus in a lot of ways.

CandyStomp · 2026-07-16T18:04:00+00:00

I think it's a good hobby, it's one of my hobbies too! There are so many interesting stories and mechanics, it's honestly amazing.

I also have to be very careful about the addictive qualities of it. I made a rule with myself that I won't play a game until -after- I have accomplished what I need for that day. This is important for me, because if I game first, I will lose track of time and regret it, beating myself up the end of the day. I have to do it last, as a reward.

TiredWillie24 · 2026-07-16T18:03:11+00:00

60 here, and I'll die with a controller in my arthritic hands.

Radicalized_Spite · 2026-07-16T18:03:09+00:00

I didn’t read the entire article but it seems like there are cognitive benefits.

https://www.unfinishedman.com/are-video-games-good-for-the-aging-brain/

deer-in-the-park · 2026-07-16T18:03:09+00:00

I'm 54 and still game, but my gaming style has changed. I don't play MMOs anymore and rarely play first person shooters or fighting games. I do have a switch and PS5, but I really prefer pc gaming and play most of my games on Steam, and a few on EPIC. I prefer games I can pause, word games have always been a favorite. There's a poker-like game called Balatro that's really fun too. But my favorite genre is the choices matter story based games. Games like Walking Dead, Lost Records, Life is Strange, Afterparty, Night Shift. As far as phone games go, Wordle each morning is about it.

Dry_Transition4134 · 2026-07-16T18:00:07+00:00

56 here. Cup of coffee and I’m competitive with the young guns.

jaydrian · 2026-07-16T17:59:08+00:00

55, and video game daily. It's a great way to unwind.

TrinGage · 2026-07-16T17:56:01+00:00

Get into pc gaming! Way more fun! And easier to engage with a community when you’re gaming on pc!

Civil_Fall_3914 · 2026-07-16T17:48:44+00:00

I'm 56 and still play video games almost daily.

KeefKake · 2026-07-16T17:46:40+00:00

Funny thing is, all these answers will just be opinions or what people think you should be doing. Do what makes you happy and don’t worry about others to validate you.

onamonapizza · 2026-07-16T17:46:40+00:00

Anything that keeps your mind engaged as you get older is helpful. If that's video games for you, then get to it! Never too old for gaming, I say

Sufficient_Stop8381 · 2026-07-16T17:43:10+00:00

I actually haven’t played video games since middle school/high school era of the NES super Mario days. I basically stopped when other things caught my interest, I got my drivers license, a car, and girlfriends. I wouldnt know what to do with today’s vidya games.

RaeAhNa · 2026-07-16T17:36:05+00:00

55F here. I've been a gamer since Pong. I will never quit gaming, it's one of the few things in life that makes me happy. I play responsibly, only on weekends, because it can be hard to play only a short time. I won't risk not getting enough sleep on a work night.

I personally don't understand why so many people disapprove of computer games but they're fine with binging Netflix all weekend. Watching videos is 100% passive. Just sitting, doing nothing, letting the screen entertain you passively. A computer game is interactive. I have to think, react, make decisions, coordinate my mind and my fingers.

I feel a rush of dopamine when I find the drop I needed to get my build online. I feel happy, and happy feelings are healthy. And as you mentioned in your post, these things are exercising the parts of our body that a gym membership doesn't help with.

So unless they cause you to miss work or something serious like that, I say play the games. I recommend a gaming PC, over a console, personally. I use a gaming mouse and I love being able to play with one hand and hold a coffee in the other. Bliss.

Academic-Sample4974 · 2026-07-16T17:33:36+00:00

I play Street Fighter 6 as a means to relax; it's a very intense game but for me, I play on my bed right before I sleep; I get a jokerface smile using Guile and making 20 year olds who spent countless hours on rank while Im just abusing the game system and the design and only play casually

imrickjamesbioch · 2026-07-16T17:30:40+00:00

I play solitaire on my phone… Guess Im a closer to a boomer than a millennial.

However I don’t have a lot of time to play video games these days. So when I do try to play, there’s like 30-60 minutes of upgrades and patches for the console or the game I want to play…

I do own a PS5 which is basically my streaming platform BUT when GTA6 comes out later this year, I definitely will be buying it!

watts6674 · 2026-07-16T17:27:47+00:00

I don't do video games...but I like watching the old guy that is blowing away folks in their teens, 20s, 30s.

He has such a righteous, gleefulless to himself. He most be in his late 70s or 80s! He was s vet!

mrhenrywinter · 2026-07-16T17:21:59+00:00

I’m 55 and just bought assassins creed black flag resynched

Doordasheasthartford · 2026-07-16T17:21:50+00:00

I am 55 been gaming since pong I am short and bald everyone is mean to me so it's my only escape in life

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