We've previously covered Japan's Akita esports team with an average age of over 60, and even a "Tekken 8" esports tournament for players aged 67 to 93. It's clear that gaming in Japan has become a legitimate "anti-aging" strategy, not just for fun, but also for maintaining mental health and staving off dementia.
Recently, Japanese media highlighted 100-year-old Grandma Ushi Ando from Inawashiro, Fukushima Prefecture, who shared her secret to longevity: gaming! Her console of choice? The classic "Super Famicom" (Super Nintendo), which she plays for two to three hours every single day. The news has, understandably, sparked a huge buzz among Japanese netizens.
Grandma Ando declared, "My favorites are Bomberman and Tetris!" A Super Famicom console is always by her bedside. Whenever the mood strikes, she pops in a cartridge, powers it on, grabs the controller with both hands, and dives into the action like a seasoned pro.
Her gaming journey actually spans over 30 years! It all started at her grandson's house in Tokyo, where she got hooked the moment she first held a controller. Controlling characters and clearing blocks for high scores became an irresistible pastime. Later, her grandson gave her his old console, and she's been playing daily ever since. The current console is her third Super Famicom; the previous two wore out, and she specifically sought out pre-owned replacements.
▼ The TV screen clearly shows her playing "Super Bomberman 3."
On weekends, her four-year-old great-grandson comes over for a match. And Grandma doesn't hold back! When the little one loses, she'll playfully tease, "Grandma's better, tee hee!" She's determined not to lose to a kid!
Many netizens have praised Grandma Ando, marveling at her passion for gaming even at 100 years old, and the heartwarming sight of her playing with her great-grandson. This kind of intergenerational fun is truly enviable. At her age, physical activities might be limited, but using video games to prevent cognitive decline is indeed a fantastic way to stay young at heart.
This heartwarming story actually came out yesterday (September 15th), which was "Respect for the Aged Day" in Japan. So, next time you hear someone say "video games are just for kids," remember Grandma Ando! As long as you have the spirit, gaming can be a lifelong journey that keeps your mind and body healthy!