Survey: 'Games more beneficial to disabled'

An American survey has revealed that more than one in five players of casual games has a physical, mental or development disability.

The figure, which is equal to 20.5% of the gaming population, is higher than the 15.1% of all Americans who are disabled, according to U.S. Census data.

The survey, which was conducted by Information Solutions Group on behalf of PopCap Games, saw 13,296 casual players respond, with 2,728 claiming to have some form of disability.

According to respondents, casual gaming is more beneficial to those with a disability, with 94% stating that gaming "provides physical or mental benefits", compared to 80% of casual game players overall.

Industry estimates indicate there are between 300 and 400 million casual gamers worldwide and that those with a disability play more frequently, for more hours per week, and for longer periods of time per gaming session.

One US family reported: "Our son with Attention Deficit Disorder does not really remember he has a disability when he is playing," and New York psychologist Dr. Carl Arinoldo, who has 25 years’ experience treating patients with a range of physical and mental disabilities, agrees.

“With some forms of depression, a person may be very focused on something that clearly amounts to a misperception of reality," Arinoldo said. "So the chance to distance themselves from the perceived negative situation and relax may allow them to think more clearly and consider the situation later in a more realistic manner.”