Tech Hub: Accessible Gaming Options

Video games aren’t just for the young: some 28 percent of gamers are 50+, and are among the fastest growing segments of the gaming audience – and the industry is adding new accessibility features for them. 

Today’s modern gaming is part of a larger media ecosystem that includes streaming, social platforms, and interactive entertainment, and consoles are increasingly designed with this in mind. What has shifted most dramatically in recent years is not simply who is playing, but how the industry is responding to the physical, sensory, and cognitive changes that often accompany aging.

ACCESSIBLE GAMING

Research consistently shows that older adults play games for enjoyment, relaxation, and mental engagement and are as likely to play daily as younger gamers – but they often encounter barriers that traditional game design has historically overlooked.

Changes in vision, hearing, fine motor control, and reaction time can make standard controllers and fast paced gameplay frustrating or inaccessible. The result has been a growing emphasis on accessibility not as a specialized accommodation, but as a core design principle that benefits players of all ages. This shift is particularly evident in the hardware and system level tools now offered by major console makers.

Microsoft

Microsoft has taken a leading role in reframing gaming accessories for its Xbox around adaptability rather than one size fits all design:

• Its accessible adaptive devices emphasize modularity and customization, allowing players to configure controllers, buttons, joysticks, and hubs in ways that reflect their individual needs.
• Large programmable buttons, external input ports, and the ability to position controls on tables, wheelchairs, or mounts make it possible for players with limited mobility or strength to engage comfortably and for longer periods of time.

While these tools were initially developed with disability communities in mind, they are increasingly relevant to older adults managing arthritis, tremors, or reduced grip strength. The broader implication is that adaptable hardware extends the usable lifespan of gaming for many people who might otherwise disengage. You can learn more about some of their tools here.

Sony

Sony’s approach to accessibility has focused heavily on system level settings and software integration, particularly on the PlayStation 5.

• Features such as adjustable text size, screen readers, color correction, closed captions, and customizable controller inputs are embedded directly into the console experience rather than buried in individual games.
• They’ve also introduced a flagship Access controller that reflects a recognition that physical interaction with games is not static across the lifespan. Its flat, reconfigurable design supports alternative hand positions and reduced reach, making it easier for older players to maintain comfort during longer sessions. These changes signal an industry wide understanding that accessibility must be proactive rather than reactive.

Nintendo

Nintendo has also made some meaningful progress, particularly with the latest generation of its Switch consoles.

• They offer options such as text enlargement, high contrast display modes, screen zoom, button remapping, and text to speech.
• While Nintendo still relies heavily on simplified interfaces rather than specialized controllers, these built in adjustments can significantly reduce friction for older adults who value ease of use over technical complexity.

Because of the design of their hardware, adaptable controllers are not as easily created, however there are a variety of accessories that might make certain games easier to play, like a steering wheel for racing games.

Mobile Devices

Lastly, do you love playing games on your phone, but find it just to challenging to manage all of the controls on such a small device? There are a variety of accessories built for phones that can make gaming on your phone more accessible. Some of them include: The ohsnap! MCON – magnetic controller, the GameSir G8 Plus – which connects via Bluetooth, and the Backbone One which plugs directly into your phone.

YOUR TURN

Would any of these devices make it easier for you to start gaming? Do you use any tools to help you game if you are a gamer? We want to hear from you!

 

Jeff Rose is the Director of Special Initiatives at Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP. He has been at the forefront of the intersection between aging and technology for more than 15 years in a range of settings, including life-plan communities, community-based organizations, and an age-tech startup. Based in Chicago, Jeff is active in a variety of local aging and community organizations and enjoys sharing his knowledge about how technology can impact and benefit older adults.

 

 

The content on the Senior Planet website is intended strictly for general informational purposes and does not constitute an endorsement or warranty regarding privacy, security, permissions, or changes in terms of service. Please scrutinize each app’s or device’s privacy policy, terms of use, data collection or other permissions before downloading or using the app or the device.

 

Photo of Xbox Adaptive Controller: Eric BVD – stock.adobe.com