The Vista Blog

From college campuses to senior living communities, Mahjong seems to be earning a spot on everyone’s weekly calendar. With roots in 19^th century China, Mahjong is a four-player game where players arrange tiles of different suits to be the first to create a winning pattern. In addition to the satisfaction of finally getting that Mahjong win, older adults can enjoy the mental and social benefits the game offers.

The Merits of Mahjong

1. Your brain stays fit. Your short-term and working memory will undoubtedly be exercised during game play. Players recall which tiles have been thrown out so they can determine which are still available for use. Simultaneously, they must remember which tiles opponents have collected and discarded. Studies have shown that playing Mahjong can even delay cognitive decline. Who said all great workouts have to make you break a sweat?
2. You get in the zone. In addition to its memory benefits, Mahjong teaches concentration. The deep focus required in Mahjong can provide some calm and a temporary relief from whatever may be on one’s mind. The active concentration required by Mahjong also offers a great alternative for those looking to disconnect from their technology in today’s day and age.
3. There’s no “I” in Mahjong. As we age, it can be increasingly difficult to foster relationships. Distance may separate older adults from loved ones, which may exacerbate isolation for those who live alone. Joining a Mahjong group, many of which are now popping up everywhere from libraries to living rooms, is a great way to connect with others who share your interest or to learn from seasoned players.
4. It’s intergenerational. Younger and older people alike have all hopped on the Mahjong train. Whether it be grandparents looking to spend more time with their grandkids or teen volunteers sitting in on a game at their local retirement community, inviting other generations to the table bridges the age gap and creates a shared purpose and passion. Doing this allows everyone involved to learn from one another about both the game and the people they are playing it with. Mahjong may even become a tradition that is shared with members of a family for years to come.
5. “Same time next week?” It often takes only one game to get completely hooked! Luckily, Mahjong clubs offer convenient ways to meet up with fellow players at the same time (or times, if you just can’t get enough) each week. Not only is this convenient, but establishing routines can also lower one’s stress levels while providing something reliable to look forward to. And, for older adults who live in a retirement community, a regularly scheduled group is likely right around the corner.

Mahjong at The Vista

At The Vista, a premier continuing care retirement community, we believe in the importance of fostering mental, physical, and spiritual health as we age. Our weekly Mahjong group offers the opportunity to enjoy vibrant community while supporting your wellness. In addition to fitness classes and arts programming, this social group is just one of the many ways in which The Vista helps our residents continue to thrive.

If you are searching for a community that offers an active and engaging lifestyle, The Vista may be right for you. To learn more, please call (201) 848-4200 or visit TheVista.org/Contact.