Almost 20 per cent of over 60s spend some of their spare time playing videogames, according to a new survey.
The research by MyVoucherCodes.co.uk showed that the most popular console was the Nintendo DS, with one in three of the respondents stating that it was their favourite gaming device.
Andrew Harrop, head of public policy for Age Concern and Help the Aged, said that gaming consoles create a social and non-threatening environment where older people enjoy competing against their friends or family.
“Using a wide range of technologies can have a positive and stimulating effect on peoples’ mental and wider wellbeing, so it’s good to see older people crossing the digital divide and having a go at gaming,” he added.
Nintendo’s consoles remained popular over the Christmas period, with three games being in the top ten for all systems, according to figures by GFK Chart-Track.
This included Wii Sports Resort, Wii Fit Plus and Super Mario Bros. Wii, while Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 took the Christmas number one spot.