Throughout history, board games have played a prominent role in human culture. From ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, who enjoyed them 5,000 years ago, to the recent discovery of 3,000-year-old dice in Iran, games have stood the test of time. In modern times, video games have emerged as a popular form of entertainment and relaxation. However, games are far from being mere distractions. Research suggests that they can actually be beneficial for our health, promoting physical activity, improving visual acuity, and enhancing both our neurological and psychological well-being. So, get ready to don your game face and explore the scientifically-backed health advantages of engaging in board and video games.
Building the Brain through Video Games
A study conducted in Germany has revealed that engaging in video game playing can have a positive impact on the brain by increasing the volume of gray matter. This, in turn, contributes to the improvement of learned skills. The study specifically found that video games directly influence the areas of the brain that are responsible for memory, information organization, spatial orientation, and fine motor skills. The researchers behind the study suggest that even just spending 30 minutes each day playing video games can effectively strengthen one’s mental abilities.
Vision
Video games can have both positive and negative effects on visual acuity. According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Rochester, individuals who spent 30 hours over a month playing action games had better target-spotting abilities on cluttered screens compared to non-gamers. This suggests that screen time with video games can enhance visual acuity.
Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health and a major US automobile insurer conducted separate studies which found that game software can reduce crash risk by 50% by improving the visual skills necessary for safe driving. However, it is important to note that excessive screen time may have negative repercussions on vision. It is advisable to take regular breaks to avoid eye strain when engaging in prolonged gaming sessions.