Video games make elderly people happier

Playing video games gives elderly people a higher level of well-being, according to research conducted by North Carolina State University.

The University asked 140 people aged 63 and over how long they play games for, reports Medical Xpress.

61% of participants said they played games "at least occasionally", while 35% said they played at least once a week.

They were then put through tests to measure their emotional and social well-being, with results indicating that those who played games occasionally were generally happier.

However participants who didn't play games had "negative emotions and a tendency toward higher levels of depression".

"The research published here suggests that there is a link between gaming and better well-being and emotional functioning," said associate professor of psychology at NC State, Dr. Jason Allaire.

"We are currently planning studies to determine whether playing digital games actually improves mental health in older adults."