Bingo and Brain Power:
Bingo is definitely a fun and exciting game to play. If the length of time that the game has been around is any indicator, then we can safely say that bingo is one of those games that we'll never see the end of. Bingo mania has even reached the internet, and countless bingo sites have cropped up almost the same time that the internet was born to cater to those who lived to play the game.
To some bingo is just a fun and trivial pastime. Whenever the word comes to mind the picture that comes next is that of aging retirees whiling away the whole afternoon. A certain stigma has been attached to the game, one that gives it the appearance that the game can only be enjoyed by the older set. Studies have been done, however, that show that bingo may do more for you than just provide you a way to pass away the time. Bingo and the effects of playing it regularly have been studied by the Psychology Department of the University of Southampton and the studies have shown positive results, particularly that the game helps keep the mind sharp and accurate and the reflexes active, even as players age.
Other games that keep the mind active like poker, backgammon , chess and the like are also credited for keeping the brain healthy through the stimulating mental activities. What makes bingo different though, is that not only it develops the mind making it more alert and sharp, it also keeps the body sharp and the reflexes quick. All bingo players can attests that you need excellent hand and eye coordination when you play bingo, especially if you are keeping track of one or more bingo cards in one game. Also, although you only need a simple set of skills in bingo, you play the game under a time constraint, and this helps keep the mind fresh and sharp, unlike those games that require you to remember information stored in the past to help you win.
In the study done by the University, they used 121 participants who were divided in playing and non-playing groups. Those who played bingo on a regular basis scored better in speed and mental acuity tests. Younger players fared better when it came to speed, while older player did better on those tasks that tested for accuracy.
Playing bingo regularly may even benefit your social life. Those who play bingo regularly are able to socialize more and meet new people, decreasing the risk of loneliness and depression, a problem that plagues most older people today.