An ambient casual game to promote socialization and active ageing

Abstract

Natural interfaces are facilitating the adoption of videogames by older adults, promoting the development of serious games aimed at encouraging healthy behaviors in this population. In this paper we present the design and evaluation of an ambient game, GuessMyCaption, aimed at enhancing the social networks of older adults, known to have an impact in their wellbeing. GuessMyCaption was deployed during a 5-weeks study in the home of one older adult and twelve relatives. The results demonstrate GuessMyCaption is easy to use and maintains an older adult engaged with exercises while offering new opportunities for online and offline socialization. GuessMyCaption had a positive impact in the perceived wellbeing of the older adult improving her perception on her cognitive skills and physical health, and catalyzing socialization. This research shows that the use of natural interfaces and family memorabilia facilitate the adoption of serious games, improves older adults' perceived wellbeing, and encourage socialization. © 2014 Springer International Publishing.