Research Article

Effects of Table Top Board Game (Ayo Olopon) On Mental Health And Social Connection Among Older Adults in A South Western Community, Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The quality of life and general well-being of older adults can be adversely affected by the rising risk of social isolation, loneliness, and mental health decline which are commonly associated with aging. Culturally relevant leisure activities, particularly those that combine social interaction with mental challenge are increasingly recommended as lowcost, sustainable interventions. The traditional Nigerian table top board game-Ayo Olopon is well known for promoting memory, strategic thinking, and interpersonal relationships, which makes it a potentially useful tool for improving psychosocial health in older adults. Aim of study: To examine the effects of table top board game-Ayo Olopon on mental health and social connection among older adults in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. Material and Methods: The experimental study recruited 40 older adult aged ≥60 years from a community within Owo Local Government area of Ondo State. They were randomized into an experimental group (n = 20) that played Ayo Olopon three times weekly for one month and a control group (n = 20) who maintained their usual activities. Mental well-being and social connection were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests. Alpha level was set at 0.05. Results: Pre and Post measurement comparison of participants in the Ayo Olopon board game showed significant improvements in both mental well-being (t = -3.12; p = 0.006) and social connection (t =7.32; p < 0 .001) at the end of the study, while the pre-post comparison of mental well-being and social connection in the control group showed a significantly decline at the end of the study (t = 8.35; p < 0.001 and t = -2.67; p =0.015 respectively). Furthermore, Between-group comparison shows a significant difference in both mental well-being (t = -8.13; p < 0.001) and social connection (t =7.63; p < 0 .001) in favor of Participants in the Ayo Olopon board game. Conclusion: Ayo Olopon improved both the mental health and social interaction in older adults and may be a practical, culturally grounded tool for promoting healthy ageing.