The effectiveness and benefits of digital gaming on older people’s functioning and activity, and its suitability in 24-hour assisted living

This research examines the role of digital gaming in 24-hour assisted living, focusing on its ability to support the functioning and everyday activity of older adults. Through four sub-studies, the thesis synthesized international literature, implemented a gaming intervention in care homes, and assessed feedback from Finnish nursing staff on the practice. The findings indicate that digital games are feasible for care environments where most residents have dementia. Additionally, when games require physical exertion, they can enhance the physical functioning of older individuals, providing meaningful support within restorative care.