At the Duke Street Methodist Church in Montego Bay last Thursday, a group of senior citizens gathered to play a game that brought them together like nothing else: dominoes.

Humbert Davis, acting president of the National Association of Domino Bodies (NADB), had a vision to get elders off the sidelines and engaged in activities that would bring them joy and a sense of purpose.

As they played, they shared stories, traded jokes, and formed lasting bonds. The dominoes became more than just a game; it was a way to stay mentally active, socialise, and find meaning in their golden years.

The highly anticipated one-day tournament came to an exciting culmination. Egbert Broadbell, a retired Jamaican inspector of police, and his skilled partner ‘Paul’ emerged victorious, claiming the top prize and the coveted championship trophy. The trophy, named in honour of Walter Davis, Davis’s father, added a touching element to the competition.

This thrilling conclusion to the tournament showcased the talent and dedication of the participants, highlighting the enduring appeal of dominoes as a competitive and engaging activity. Broadbell and Stephen’s win was a testament to their strategic thinking, skill, and teamwork, as they outmanoeuvred their opponents to claim the championship title.

According to Davis, the goal of the dominoes programme for seniors is multifaceted.

“We are focusing on the elders, and so we don’t want them to just lie down in their homes doing nothing. We want them to come out, play some dominoes and have fun, and don’t wait for death to come,” Davis told the Jamaica Observer.

“Our goal is to enhance memory, imagination, and strategic thinking among seniors, while encouraging mental health exercises, intergenerational interaction, and skill-sharing.” Davis highlights the cognitive benefits of playing dominoes, including improved memory and brain function, better information processing, and retrieval. The game also promotes visualisation of patterns, forms, and lines, contributing to cognitive development.

Davis said that the regular dominoes play can build brain connections in older adults, enhancing cognitive performance and resilience against mental health issues like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. He also stated that the social interaction aspect of dominoes helps reduce loneliness and prevent depression, supporting overall healthy aging.

“We concentrate on both the physical and cognitive aspects of well-being, recognising the interconnectedness of mental and physical health in older adults. This approach underscores the potential of dominoes as a valuable activity for seniors, promoting not only cognitive health but also social connection and overall well-being. By engaging in dominoes, seniors can enjoy a fun and stimulating activity that supports their mental and emotional health,” Davis stated.

Davis also expressed gratitude to Tastee Patty for their support.

“We thank Tastee Patty for coming on board and contributing to the success of our dominoes tournament. Their partnership has helped make a positive impact on the lives of senior citizens in the community,” he ended.

— Ruddy Allen