THE DEVELOPMENT OF BOARD GAME TO ENHANCE COGNITIVE PERCEPTION AND THINKING SKILLS IN OLDER ADULTS

Abstract

This research aimed to explore the factors and guidelines for developing a cognitive perception-enhancing and thought-stimulating board game for older adults, develop its prototype, and test it with participants. Key informants included five experts, and participants comprised 30 elderly men and women aged 60 or over, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection tools included an evaluation form on the appropriateness of the board game and a satisfaction questionnaire. The results revealed that factors supporting the development of a board game for older adults included brain stimulation and thinking skills, enjoyment, which creates happiness and quality of life, social interaction, learning new things, ergonomic design, and safety. These data were then analyzed and used to develop five board game prototypes, of which the third type, Worms Competing to Eat Leaves, was evaluated by experts as the most appropriate, with the highest average score (  = 4.20, SD = 0.17), especially in skill development, learning, and social interaction. The test results from playing with the developed prototype indicated that the older adults participant group has an average satisfaction score at a high level (  = 3.70, SD = 0.81), especially in the benefit aspect, which received the highest score, followed by usability and enjoyment.