Blog #10 - Veteran Gaming

 

In today's world, gaming is often seen as a pastime for younger generations. However, this weekend I had the unique opportunity to experience firsthand how video games can sometimes transcend age boundaries that can provide cognitive, social, and emotional benefits, even for those in their later years. As I had the honor to "fight" beside a 78-year-old military veteran in Helldivers 2. We connected through an active Discord community that became a proud reminder of how gaming can serve as a tool for a fun engaging mental stimulation and connection to older generations.

I met the veteran, whom I refer to as Willy (gamertag "willyeverwin"), in a Discord server dedicated to Helldivers 2, a war game and shooter where players must work together to achieve objectives while overcoming various hostile forces. At first, I didn’t know Willy's age, but he sounded pretty aged when he spoke and divulged stories about some of his military service felt like the game. When I realized how old he was, I was simply estatic. Despite knowning the age gap, we shared a mutual passion for teamwork and the bliss of exploding things up (in the game). He was pretty sharp, quick-witted, and adept at managing the complex mechanics of the game. What stood out the most was his focus, strategic thinking, and the way he would call out in-game team tactics effortlessly, granted he probably was someone who had led soldiers in real life.

At 78, good old Willy represents a considerate subtle demographic of older gamers. While many might assume that playing games such as Helldivers 2 is too complex for someone his age, the truth is that engaging in these types of games can offer numerous benefits, especially when it comes to cognitive health. Games like these demand not only quick reflexes but also rapid strategic thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to coordinate with others. These mental exercises provide a valuable workout for the brain, helping to maintain cognitive sharpness and potentially even slow the effects of aging on memory and mental function. When I commuted to different (CNA) facilities in Phoenix with elderly patients around his age, they weren't as cognatively aware as he was.

Research articles and videos periodically has shown that engaging in mentally challenging activities, including video games, can improve brain health. For the elderly, gaming has a considerable chance to help improve memory, attention, and decision-making. Games like Helldivers 2 require players to think on their feet, adapt to ever-changing environments, and work with others toward a common goal. These skills translate into real-world benefits, fostering better focus and enhancing the ability to multitask. Willy’s ability to stay engaged and perform decent in a game that requires quick thinking and constant adaptation was a testament to how beneficial gaming can be for maintaining cognitive abilities.

In HD2 , camaraderie is heavy in this game. Willy joined initally to play with his son whos also in the military but gaming also provided a way for him to interact with others, and forge new friendships, and feel a sense of belonging within a community beyond his family. At his age, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the world, especially with physical limitations that can come with aging. But Willy was able to form meaningful relationships with people across the world and nationally with people much younger than him, like me. The Discord community provided a safe space where age was irrelevant, and the focus was on cooperation and killing undemocratic foes.

Beyond the cognitive and social benefits, gaming with good old Willy also helped me appreciate the power of perspective. Him sharing his experiences, both in the military and in life, shaped the way he approached challenges in the game. While I was often focused on optimizing strategies for victory, Willy’s guidance was rooted in discipline and patience. Knowing that he plays this game humbles me that people his age still have what it takes to keep up with the newer generations. Helldivers 2 with a 78-year-old veteran like Willy highlighted that age is just a number and the willingness to not be closed minded is always better. Thank you for your service trooper!

Willyeverwin - "Waiting on your enemies is like letting a fly circle your food-you know its going to land, and that's when you swat it"