Bingo has been widely popular in the United Kingdom since the 1960s. Today, even the younger generation is indulging in the game in a big way.
According to Worldmetrics.org, over 3 million people play bingo regularly in the United Kingdom. The same website mentions that bingo is the fourth most popular leisure activity in the UK.
There are various factors that make bingo a much-loved game. To begin with, it's a simple game that is entertaining and rewarding at the same time.
One can easily learn how to play bingo as it doesn’t call for complex strategies. It's based on luck alone and allows players to relax and have fun.
The fact that bingo is purely a social game allows people to interact and socialise when they come together. The social appeal has had a significant contribution in making bingo the immensely popular game that it is today.
The advent of digital platforms has had a big impact too, making the game more easily accessible to many. Today, we have multiple variations of online bingo that offer lucrative jackpots and other prizes.
Interestingly enough, bingo is not just a game that entertains but also comes with its share of benefits.
Health Benefits of Playing Bingo
Bingo is a game that should be encouraged simply because of the multiple benefits it offers. The game is all the more beneficial when it comes to the elderly.
1] Enhanced Hand-Eye Coordination
This is one of the many health benefits offered by bingo. The fast-paced nature of the game calls for swift hand-eye coordination.
The need to find the numbers and mark them quickly enough, allows the players to develop coordination between the eyes, hands and brain. In the elderly, this prevents or delays the onset of degenerative diseases like dementia.
2] Sharper Cognitive Abilities
Another health benefit of playing bingo, especially for the elderly, is the improvement in cognitive abilities. The players need to focus on listening to the numbers, remembering them and marking them.
This enhances mental agility, focused attention, listening skills and memory. This in turn prevents cognitive decline in the elderly, according to studies.
3] Enhanced Physical Health
Wondering how a card game can improve physical health? Well, it has been observed that the elderly people who engage in social games like bingo, enjoy better physical health.
The reason is that the game allows the elderly to enjoy a social life and have fun. This helps them stay happier which improves their overall health and well-being.
People who are socially active tend to remain free from health issues for a longer time than those who aren't.
4] Coping with Loneliness
Loneliness is an issue faced by many and the elderly are more susceptible. A social game like bingo provides the perfect platform for people to come together and connect.
Also, the game is pretty simple and anyone can play with ease. This brings in an element of inclusivity, which is immensely helpful.
The social interaction helps people develop friendships and bond with others, and cope with loneliness effectively. Thus, bingo can also help in combating depression and anxiety, spreading positivity and good feelings.
5] Faster Recovery Time
It has been observed that patients who indulge in recreational and fun activities like playing bingo, tend to have shorter hospital stays. This is because the game acts as a stress reliever and keeping stress away aids in quick recovery.
Getting Started with Playing Bingo
Technology has made it possible to play bingo from the comfort of your home, thanks to online bingo. The introduction of technology like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), is elevating the bingo experience for many.
Online bingo platforms are continuously evolving, introducing more and more exciting variants to attract players. Also, there are many platforms that offer bingo games and bonuses for members.
There are many ways in which the game of bingo can be adapted to make it more convenient for the elderly. The cards can be modified to create more contrast that aids visibility, along with larger numbers.
Many organisations for the elderly use bingo cards with pictures and symbols, instead of numbers. This makes it easy for people to figure out and follow.
Also, cards with sliders can be used to help patients with limited dexterity. Music bingo is also a great idea for people with dementia as music is easy to remember.
Conclusion
The game of bingo offers multiple health benefits, which is just one reason to play the game. Indulging in a fun game of bingo every now and then can indeed help you stay happy and healthy.
This simple game has come a long way in the last few centuries. With constant innovations and the rise in popularity, the future of bingo looks bright.