Game Shows and Seniors

Watching game shows on TV has always been a fun household activity for many.  The Senior population especially.  

Studies have shown that TV viewing does increase after age 55 – although all media usage, including television, decreases among the oldest members of society, those over age 84. It seems that for the younger old, at least, TV is an important window to the world and a basis for shared experience for seniors.

While many of today’s seniors are watching more TV due to health reasons, limited access to family members or limited resources they continue to enjoy games shows often.  There is a familiarity with game shows, especially if they have been watching them for decades.  It’s almost a comfort level for many as it’s a dependable and recognizable face that comes into their living rooms daily.  

As the number of seniors has increased, so has their diversity in terms of health, education, income, entertainment, information needs, and lifestyle. The increased diversity means that this age group’s use of media has expanded and moved beyond game shows, however they find themselves coming back to them more often.  

Even though there is the assumption that seniors are passive TV consumers, they really are more than that. They are active in their minds and their hearts and find that watching and enjoying game shows helps keep their minds fresh and alert.  When they are challenged with questions or visuals that bring them back to a place of fond memories, it enlightens a sense of joy from within them.  

Seniors as active participants in the more traditional TV shows vs. the alternatives now of YouTube and Netflix, etc…..  which is really important to remember when considering if you need to expand your TV channel options.  Sometimes it’s really not worth subscription based services, if basic television suffices. 

So the next time you see one of your favorite game shows on TV as you are channel surfing, remember that there is a huge audience out there who is truly enjoying the light stress free entertainment that the show brings.  And if you happen to be visiting or near a city that offers live audiences for game shows, perhaps considering getting tickets as a surprise for your favorite senior would bring a welcome smile to their face.