A brain-scan study at the University of Toronto found that compared to young adults, senior adults have decreased brain activity in brain areas that enable concentration. This means that the elderly often can’t focus well, due to decreased brain activity.
Not only are there problems with focus, seniors often also have vision loss, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and issues with dementia. Collectively, these problems decrease their ability to stay active.
There are 5 levels to the game of Wonderful Gift.
Level 1: One gift will show up on screen, the player taps the gift to earn 1 point before the gift disappears (within 10 seconds). Seniors should have adequate time to gain this 1st point.
Level 2: After achieving 10 points in Level 1, two gifts will begin appearing on screen. Increased focus will be necessary to gain points.
Level 3: After achieving 20 points, three gifts will begin appearing on screen. Not only will individuals require increased concentration to gain points, but they will also need to tap faster in order to score these gifts.
Level 4: After achieving 30 points, snowflakes will begin to show up on screen to interfere with the players focus. If players mistakenly tap on a snowflake, they lose a point.
Level 5: After achieving 40 points, bombs will begin appearing on screen in addition to the existing gifts and snowflakes. If the player accidentally taps the bomb, the game ends. Having multiple moving pieces on screen will train our Senior players to increase their focus and agility.
During the holiday season, playing this game will bring joy through achievement, while also allowing for seniors to practice their mental agility, finger flexibility, & visual coordination.