Scientists are increasingly recognizing the cognitive and mental benefits of playing video games. A recent Western University study involved more than 2,000 participants and found that those who played one type of game for more than five hours a week had the same cognitive abilities as people 10 years younger. However, no significant effect on mental health was observed.
Video games are not just a source of entertainment. They can also be a way to improve cognitive skills. This has been reported in a study conducted in collaboration with Western University. Museum of Science and Industry Results published as part of From Manchester Manchester Science Festivalshow that playing video games can have a positive effect. perceptionPerceptionBut not necessarily on mental health.
The Canadian study, called “Mind and Body,” included more than 2,000 participants from around the world. They were asked to complete a lifestyle questionnaire, followed by online games designed to measure various aspects of cognition such as memory, attention, reasoning and verbal skills. The results are surprising: Playing video games improves cognitive abilities, but has no significant effect on mental health.
According to the data collected, people who play video games frequently (five hours or more per week for the same type of game) have cognitive abilities 13.7 years younger. In contrast, people who played a variety of games less than five hours per week had cognitive abilities 5.2 years younger.
What about the effects on mental health? Mixed observation
playing video games” is associated with better cognitive abilities, but not with improvement or deterioration of mental health, whereas increased physical activity is associated with improvement in mental health, but not with improvement or deterioration of cognitive health »explains Western University professor Adrian Owen.
“It’s gamers over 45 who play more video games than Z.“
The study also examined the effects of exercise. The bodyThe body on mental health. Participants who met or exceeded the recommendations ofWorld Health OrganizationWorld Health Organization (WHO) 150 minutes of physical activity per week, was 12% more likely than not. symbolsymbol Depression and 9% more likely to have no symptoms of anxiety.
These differences The matterThe matter Mental health problems were not primarily caused by individuals with severe exposure. DepressedDepressed or restless in study. In contrast, physical activity had the greatest effect on those with mild or no symptoms.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of video games. And if the health of the youngest is often questioned, it’s gamers over 45 who play more video games than Z, according to a study.
