Silver and Gold Magazine Winter 2019/2020 | Page 26

THE MAGIC OF PLAY
– Courtesy of Retire-at-Home Services
www.retireathome.com
Come
y
a
l
P
with Us
To learn more about
our citywide programs
or to register, visit
burlington.ca/adult
26
Lots more online! www.silvergoldmagazine.ca
W hen was the last time you played? Childhood is full of
opportunities to imagine, create and have fun, but those
often subside as we mature and take on more responsibilities.
Occasionally, play is even considered silly or unproductive;
but having fun is important at every age.
Dr. Stuart Brown, who has spent decades studying the
power of play, stresses that what constitutes “play” will vary
between individuals, but that it should be about the joy of
the experience, rather than accomplishing a goal. As long as
the activity you choose is “purposeless, fun and pleasurable,”
than you will be reaping the benefits of play.
The Neurological Benefits of Play
In his TED Talk “Play is more than just fun,” Dr. Brown
states, “nothing lights up the brain like play.” Many fun
activities, such as playing games or creating art, involve
creativity, imagination and critical thinking skills. Play can
help seniors develop and maintain their cognitive abilities by
keeping their brains active and engaged, and is also known
to help reduce memory loss.
The Physiological Benefits of Play
Having fun releases endorphins, which naturally make us
happier and more relaxed, and can even temporarily lessen
pain. Play also prevents illness by eliminating the stress
hormones that attack our immune system. A good laugh
is especially beneficial, as it relieves tension in our muscles
and lowers blood pressure, helping to protect us against
cardiovascular problems.
The Psychological Benefits of Play
Having fun is one of the best ways to lighten our mood
and increase feelings of contentment and relaxation. Seniors
who incorporate play into their lives will get a daily boost
of happiness, which is an excellent way to combat some of
the emotional and physical difficulties associated with aging.
Additionally, shared laughter is one of the best bonding
experiences and can make two individuals feel closer to
each other. Seniors and caregivers should make a point of
having fun together, not only to relieve stress, but also to
build a stronger, more effective relationship.
There are plenty of ways to play; the challenge is finding
something that works for you. Find something that
interests you, such as reading, listening to music or an
audio book, knitting, painting, talking or going for a walk.
It doesn’t matter how you choose to have fun, as long as
it is compliments your health and lifestyle, and is easily
accessible and sustainable.•