Why are jigsaw puzzles so popular?
They may not appear to be the most obvious champions in the digital counter-revolution, but jigsaw puzzles are having a moment. In recent years, their popularity has soared. The restrictions of the COVID19 pandemic played its part. According to The Guardian, in 2020, jigsaw sales reached £100 million in the UK, a 38% increase from the previous year, largely driven by lockdowns and the resulting rise in adult purchases. But their popularity has continued as people look to digitally detox, spend more time with family or to slow down and be more mindful. In a 2022 survey from Aviva, 34% of UK adults had attempted a jigsaw that year.
The history of jigsaw puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles have a long history and have been providing entertainment and intellectual stimulation for people of all ages for centuries. Their origins date back to the late 18th century when they were educational tools for children. In 1760, London mapmaker John Spilsbury crafted the first commercially available jigsaw puzzle, mounting a map onto wood and cutting it into pieces to teach geography.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that jigsaw puzzles gained popularity as a leisure activity for adults. The 1920s and 1930s saw jigsaw puzzles become even more popular, thanks to advancements in printing technology, which enabled the production of more intricate and detailed designs and manufacturers started producing jigsaw puzzles in large quantities. In the 1960s, 3D puzzles emerged, allowing enthusiasts to assemble three-dimensional structures using interlocking pieces. In more recent times people have been able to personalise jigsaws using family photos to make a unique gift.
As technology has advanced and replaced many traditional hobbies, the rewards of completing a jigsaw continues to resonate with people today.
The benefits of jigsaw puzzles
There are three main benefits of doing a jigsaw puzzle:
- Relaxation: doing a jigsaw calms the mind
- Cognitive: the focus and memory skills required are good for the brain
- Challenge: finishing a complicated jigsaw is very rewarding
Exercising both sides of the brain, jigsaws challenge your concentration, providing an opportunity to escape the digital world and unwind. Completing a puzzle can create a sense of calm, similar to meditation.
And with a 1,000-piece jigsaw taking on average 9 hours to complete, jigsaw puzzles improve attention, memory, perseverance, resilience and fine motor skills.
Jigsaws can be sociable too. While they are an ideal retirement hobby to pass time alone, they can be a fun activity to do with family and friends. They promote discussion, interaction, and teamwork, making them a wonderful way to bond.
Join a community with retirement hobbies at the core
Whether you choose an over 60s independent living apartment at a Retirement Living development or opt for the added services of Retirement Living PLUS for over 70s, our welcoming retirement communities host a range of informal gatherings, clubs and events to suit all interests and abilities. Some developments have potting sheds, arts and crafts rooms and sports facilities too.
Learn more our retirement homes near you, call our friendly team on 0800 201 4811 or contact us online for more information.
