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We don’t need scientific studies to tell us that being playful as adults helps reduce stress (though research backs it up). However, it is worth exploring how playfulness benefits the brain, especially later in life.
A 2025 study published in the National Library of Medicine provided insights into it. For one, it revealed that social playfulness facilitates better aging.
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As the paper states, social playfulness, whether through humor, moments of spontaneity, or creativity, not only mitigates cognitive decline but also enhances neural resilience, promoting healthier aging.
“Encouraging older adults to adopt social playfulness in their everyday lives has the potential to enhance both cognitive and psychological well-being, demonstrating the wide-reaching applicability of this approach,” an excerpt of the study reads.
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The common misconception about being playful is that (1) it is only for children and (2) it is not a productive use of time. However, educational behaviorist Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe disagrees with this.
“Play affords us moments of relief from the seriousness and responsibilities of daily life. It brings us to the here and now, taking us out of our heads and into our bodies,” she wrote.
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Dr. Hanley-Dafoe added that being playful is also a “gateway to empathy, communication, and relationships.” She explained that it can reinforce ties between people and help create a greater sense of community.
“We can give ourselves permission to lighten up, be unproductive without guilt, and rediscover the power of play,” she stated.
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Dr. Hanley-Dafoe clarified that reinforcing play in our adult lives will take work and intention to make it a top priority. In doing so, she urges stepping outside of the comfort zone and letting go of what you “should” or “ought” to be doing.
“Once we remove some of these barriers and limitations, then we can truly experience the benefits of play.”
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