A recent study involving 2,000 adults has discovered that four in ten adults have become less playful as they’ve aged, with the average person losing their sense of play by the age of 29.
Key factors contributing to this decrease in playtime include a rise in responsibilities, whether related to family or work obligations , alongside the belief that any extra time should be allocated towards activities seen as productive.
Despite many finding themselves hindered by other pressing responsibilities, six out of ten adults long to be more playful and make more time for light-hearted activities each week.
Interestingly, for those who already regularly indulge in board games, video games, or attend quiz and trivia nights, two-thirds report a significant reduction in their stress levels and the ability to cope better emotionally.
“Play is a powerful tool for building social connections, enhancing mental well-being, and fostering creative problem-solving skills that benefit our personal and work lives,” remarked Dr Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play.
He has joined forces with online gaming app PAPAYA who commissioned the study, to help the highlight importance of retaining play in our adult lives.
Dr Brown explains that when we engage in playful behaviour it activates chemicals in the brain such as dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin. These chemicals open the brain to new connections, reduces stress, boosts our mood, and strengthens resilience.
“Play taps into neural systems that enhance adaptability, innovativeness, optimism, social bonding, and emotional regulation” he further explained, highlighting that these positive effects make play an ‘essential’ aspect of a fulfilled life.
And it happens regardless of the medium, so whether you choose to play outdoors, doodle, do puzzles or even video games, you will still be reaping the positive effects.
More than half of the individuals polled agreed that adults undervalue the importance of play and this is reflected in the research: a fifth of adults rarely engage in some form of playful activity with some averaging less than once a month, despite it’s mood-boosting capabilities.
“As we age, play also becomes a powerful tool for building connections,” a spokesperson from PAPAYA stated. “It strengthens bonds with family and friends and fosters a sense of community.”
They continued by saying that activities like board games and team sports offer chances to interact with others in a meaningful and enjoyable manner that can help combat loneliness and maintain a strong network as we age.
Here are the top three ways we play as adults:
- Play board games
- Play online games
- Sports or physical activity
- Engaging in creative hobbies
- Participating in quiz nights
- Playing social games such as charades
- Doodling or exploring fun art activities
- Singing at karaoke sessions
- Playing storytelling games
- Trying out escape rooms