85-year-old finds joy in gaming with seniors

At the PCF Sparkle Active Ageing Centre in Yew Tee, seniors are finding joy in gaming. Among them is 85-year-old Ramlah Ahmad Ali, who plays Counter-Strike 2 with fellow seniors. This unexpected scene highlights that gaming is not just for the young. Ramlah, a mother of ten, was encouraged by her daughter, Zainab Rahmat, to join the centre’s gaming sessions. Since September, the centre has held ten sessions aimed at helping seniors learn PC gaming. These sessions teach cognitive skills and improve coordination. Studies suggest that such games can enhance memory and may lower dementia risk. Initially, Ramlah found it challenging to use the computer. “Within the first 10 minutes, I felt dizzy,” she said. However, with the help of trainers, she learned to handle the mouse and keyboard. Gradually, gaming became enjoyable for her. “Shooting is fun,” she remarked. Beyond the games, Ramlah has built friendships with her teammates, sharing stories over tea during breaks. “I’ve made new friends,” she said, adding that she enjoys teaching them Malay. Ramlah stays active beyond gaming with family outings. She visits places like Gardens by the Bay, capturing moments with her smartphone. She encourages other seniors to embrace technology, saying, “What matters more is being willing to try.”