FI MessiahLifeways UnscriptedMagazine Spring2025 - Flipbook - Page 29
“ We are always looking for ways to think
about the journey of aging outside of the box
that it’s often put inside.” — KARL BRUMMER
While the average user is in their mid-30s, according
put inside,” said Messiah Lifeways President & CEO
to Statista, recent AARP research shows that video
Karl Brummer. “Our hope for this space is that it
gamers 50 and older have grown by more than 12
supports a culture of intergenerational connection,
million in the past six years (a 30% increase), now
support, and learning as it relates to future
accounting for about a quarter of all video game
technological endeavors. We want to empower older
players. It's clear that older adults who experienced
generations to continue to see technology as a helpful
the trailblazing of gaming first-hand in the ’60s, ’70s,
tool that can add value and enrichment to their lives.”
and ’80s are interested in picking up their controllers
The Connections Lab will be equipped with a Switch,
once again.
several PS4s, and a variety of beginner-friendly games
to choose from—offering them opportunities to play
THE CONNECTIONS LAB
Recognizing this trending interest among older adults
as well as benefits like improved memory, processing
speed, and problem-solving, Messiah Lifeways is
developing a designated gaming space for residents.
“We are always looking for ways to think about the
journey of aging outside of the box that it’s often
with children and grandchildren when they visit
and engage in their favorite gaming pursuits in their
free time. Messiah Village resident Chris Smith, who
enjoyed playing the video game “Myst” in the ’90s but
hasn’t picked up a joypad in decades, is excited to give
gaming a try again.
“Maybe I’ll find my new favorite game,” he said.
Messiah Village residents
Ted Crouse (far left image)
and Jack Brandt (right
image) are pictured
playing video games with
local high school students
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