Design Research of Elder Nostalgic Games

• Main Authors: WU, TZU-HSUAN, 吳姿萱
• Other Authors: CHOU, WEN-HUEI
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2018
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/tvq8nv

碩士 === 國立雲林科技大學 === 數位媒體設計系 === 106 === Advancements in technology enable extending the lifespan of older adults; however, various aging problems arise and reduce their well-being in later life. This study adopted reminiscence about the past as the primary theme to create a digital game for tablet users. The game integrated the elements of traditional rice dieting customs and allowed players to create virtual rice dishes during the game. The objective of this game was to provide a platform that allows older adults to create rice dishes for festivals while reminiscing about their experiences in preparing such dishes. The game also facilitated older adults to acquire experience in playing a digital game and to gain confidence through revisiting their memory for rice dishes. This study first reviewed previous cases on reminiscence and digital reminiscence therapy, information on traditional festivals and rice dieting customs, the historical background of Taiwan from 1951 to 1960, and literature on older adults and digital games. Subsequently, interviews were conducted with older adults to compile methods for preparing rice dishes, and the collected data were used as the basis to design a prototype version of the digital game. After the design of the game was completed, the game was tested and assessed. The prototypical game focused on the preparation of traditional rice pudding dishes, featuring three stages that require the player to prepare rice cake, red tortoise cake, and tangyuan (also called soup ball). The digital game presented scenes from Taiwan between 1951 and 1960. Players progressed through the game by first cultivating rice plants, followed by purchasing ingredients and creating rice dishes. To test and evaluate the prototype version, older adults aged ≥65 years were accompanied by a helper to run the game; when playing the game, the older adults were given the freedom to make decisions as they saw fit. After the test run, interviews were conducted with the older adults. The test results and interview content revealed that older adults with actual experiences of preparing rice dishes demonstrated higher intentions of playing the game. The simple and intuitive cues and control of the game allowed older adults to easily immerse themselves in the game. The detailed instructions on preparing rice dishes enabled older adults to recall fine details regarding the dish preparation process. This provided an opportunity for older adults to demonstrate their knowledge to others and experience a sense of accomplishment. In addition, revisiting their memory of traditional rice dishes allowed older adults to remember the pleasant moments when they enjoyed such dishes during festivals, eliciting a sensing of happiness. Therefore, incorporating the elements of traditional rice dishes into a digital game facilitates bridging the communication between the older and younger generations, allowing them to exchange experiences and learn from each other. In this study, a digital game was created by incorporating the elements of traditional rice dishes to reduce older adults’ uneasiness with such games. Digital games also enabled older adults to share their knowledge of creating traditional rice dishes, thereby providing an opportunity for them to exchange their experiences with other people.