Does Digital Gaming Enable Healthy Aging for Community-Dwelling People With Dementia?

Abstract

This article critically explores the benefits of commercial digital gaming technology for healthy aging of people with dementia. Research with community-dwelling people with dementia has highlighted the need for enhanced access to nonpharmacological interventions to support social engagement. Commercially available technologies offer a means to engage people with dementia. This article expands on this body of knowledge by assessing the benefits of digital gaming on healthy aging for community-dwelling people with dementia who have participated in a series of Tech Clubs using Apple iPads, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo DS. Findings from this study demonstrates that use of digital gaming technologies promotes lifelong learning; optimization of mental, physical, and social stimulation; and independence, all of which promote the agenda of healthy aging.