People of all ages love games, but they can be particularly valuable for seniors. Mood, alertness, cognitive function and memory are all improved by regular mental stimulation, and playing games is one of the most fun ways to stay active. Consider these top indoor games for seniors:
Group Games
Seniors who are healthy and mobile will enjoy many of the same games people of all ages enjoy:
Charades. A rousing game of charades is fun for all concerned; expect seniors to enjoy a lot of laughs while playing this classic game.
Pictionary. Provide a large whiteboard or newsprint tablet and some colored markers, divide seniors into pairs or teams and have them play this now-classic, often-hilarious game. Consider printing up simplified large-print cards that will be easier to read and understand.
Card Games
Cards are a great way for seniors to be social and stay mentally stimulated. Some of the most popular card games for seniors include:
• Rummy
• Bridge
• Canasta
• Cribbage
Board Games
Board games are an excellent indoor activity for two or more players. Depending upon the level of difficulty sought, there’s a board game for every interest:
Scrabble. This classic board game challenges the brain on many levels and is great fun for all.
Backgammon. Backgammon is another beloved game that seniors can play for hours.
Chess and Checkers. These two iconic board games can provide hours of entertainment. Chess offers lots of stimulation for the strategic mind, and checkers is just plain fun.
Single-Player Games
There are also plenty of games that seniors can play on their own to help keep their minds stimulated and alert. From puzzles to word and logic games, there are plenty of great options to choose from:
Solitaire. This classic card game is easy and fun to play either online or with a deck of cards.
Crossword puzzles. This tried and true puzzle game is fun and challenging and will definitely get your loved one’s synapses firing. Buy them a book that offers different difficulty levels and displays the answers in the back.
Search-a-Word. Word search puzzles challenge the mind and are great fun to complete. Find a book that offers themed puzzles on a topic your loved one is already interested in.
Sudoku. This logic game has skyrocketed in popularity and offers those who love numbers a way to stay mentally stimulated.
Mazes. Completing a maze can have a soothing, meditative quality while also challenging the brain and keeping it alert.
Not only are indoor games fun; they are also mentally stimulating and can help the brain to retain its sharpness. Encourage your senior loved one to play the games they love most both on their own and with friends.