Bingo players have to concentrate.
Your attitude towards bingo may be influenced by your age and social class. Some people see it as boring and not very mentally challenging, and they may compare it unfavorably to other games such as crossword puzzles or bridge. But this attitude is not borne out by reality. In fact, you have to concentrate and be sharp to play bingo. Many elderly people not only enjoy it, but also gain intellectual benefits from their games of bingo.
Concentration
A number of studies have found that playing bingo improves the concentration and the short-term memory. Though the principles of a game of bingo may be simple, the player is required to concentrate closely. If she lets her concentration slip for even a few seconds, she misses the numbers. Most regular bingo players would probably agree that the more you play, the better you get at concentrating. The game helps you improve this skill, according to researchers Donald H. Kausler and Barry C. Kausler,
Coordination
The pace of a bingo game is pretty fast. The caller calls the numbers at a steady pace. The player glances quickly at perhaps several cards and marks the numbers off. She must immediately recognize if she has a winning card, and shout out, or the game moves on and she misses her prize. The connection between what she hears and her action of marking the card must be quick. She must also call out quickly. The connection between hearing, marking, and recognizing all call for quick reactions. Doing this in bingo helps improve elderly people's coordination and quickness, the Kauslers found.
Stimulus
Because a bingo player has to concentrate and the game moves quickly, this is intellectually stimulating. There is a chance of winning and this causes excitement. When a person is excited there is an increase in the release of endorphins which acts as a stimulus, making a person feel elated and even relaxed after the game, research has found.
Social Benefits
Some older people are isolated. Their families may not live nearby and they may not be able to get out and about as they once did. Attending a bingo game can provide valuable company and a lighthearted evening out. This sort of activity can help keep depression at bay. Depression in the elderly group can be a real problem, and can even contribute to a decline in the intellectual functions if the person loses interest in life.
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