Dec 19, 2024 · Strategy Games: Problem-solving, working memory: 2-4: Easy-Moderate: Critical thinking focus: 60 mins, 2x weekly: Reminiscence Games: Reduced depression, improved self-esteem: 2-8: Easy: ... Digital games can enhance memory, improve focus, and boost problem-solving skills in seniors. Studies show that just two weeks of playing digital games can ... ... For seniors, including these games in your routine might help delay or prevent memory-related conditions. To keep your mind sharp and your spirits high, we’ve put together a list of 33 fun and enriching games for seniors, divided into ten easy-to-navigate categories. ... Jul 12, 2024 · Whether it be just to curb boredom, learn something new, or stay mentally fit, games can help improve our everyday lives, keep us sharp, and improve our problem-solving skills. While forgetfulness can be a natural part of aging, using these types of brain games can slow down the process. ... Brain games are a scientifically endorsed way for seniors to enhance memory and cognitive functions. In this article, we will explore various entertaining games that promise both fun and mental agility, setting the stage for a cognitively rich retirement. ... May 22, 2020 · 31 Fun Brain Games for Seniors ( Free to Paid) is the complete guide to fun activiites to boost your brain powers and to help people thrive at home (where ever that may be). This isn’t another sudoku list instead an ultimate guide combining fun games with brain booster potential. ... Jun 29, 2023 · These games target various cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, recall, logical thinking, problem-solving, and language skills. Let’s explore 9 memory-boosting games designed specifically for seniors. ... May 17, 2023 · 11 Best Mental Games for Seniors. These games can help improve cognitive function and memory. Here are some of the best mental games for the elderly: 1. Bingo. Bingo is a classic game that can be played by seniors of all ages. It involves marking off numbers on a card as they are called out. Bingo can help improve memory and cognitive function. ... Brain games are a fun way to improve your problem-solving and memory skills. We’ve listed the best brain games for seniors you can play for yourself or with your elderly loved one to help keep the brain sharp. ... Keeping mentally active with various games is a good strategy for senior health. A number of studies and findings acknowledge that brain games can help maintain and even strengthen such areas as memory, reasoning and speed of processing, according to the National Institutes of Health. ... Playing a memory game is a great and fun get into to brain training. The best thing about mind and memory games is that you can start them today to improve cognitive function. Here are the 10 free brain training games for seniors that will keep your aging brain sharp: 1. Chess. ... ">

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Recent studies show 40% of adults aged 65 and older actively participate in gaming activities, challenging long-held assumptions about video games being exclusively for younger generations.

Gaming options for seniors range from traditional card games to modern digital applications. Research data reveals significant cognitive and social benefits from regular gameplay among older adults.  Games for seniors  now include both solo activities and group entertainment choices designed for various skill levels.

This guide examines 10 gaming selections proven to enhance mental engagement and social connections. Each option meets specific criteria for accessibility, learning curve, and social interaction potential. Testing results demonstrate these games’ effectiveness across different senior age groups and ability levels.

Table of Contents

Classic Card Games for Seniors

Classic card games remain among the most engaging activities for seniors, with 65% of adults over 50 regularly playing with friends. Research data shows significant participation rates across various card game formats.

Popular Card Game Options

Bridge leads the traditional card game rankings, featuring strategic four-player partnerships and complex decision-making elements. Rummy provides more flexible gameplay options, accommodating 2-6 players with moderate complexity levels. Canasta balances strategy and chance elements while supporting group play.

Card Game Benefits for Seniors

Research shows 70% of older adults credit card games with supporting  cognitive health , while 66% report enhanced mental health and overall well-being. Card games deliver three primary advantages:

  • Mental Stimulation: Strategy development and memory utilization
  • Social Connection: 58% report stronger social bonds through gameplay
  • Fine Motor Skills: Regular card handling maintains manual dexterity

Card Game Accessibility Modifications

Physical limitations require specific adaptations for optimal gameplay. Testing reveals three effective modifications:

  • Large-format cards improve visibility
  • Card holders enhance handling capability
  • Simplified rule variations maintain core gameplay

Home settings prove most effective for adapted gameplay, with 65% of seniors preferring residential game environments. This allows customized space arrangement and rule modifications based on individual needs.

Brain-Boosting Board Games

Board games reduce dementia risk by approximately 15%, research shows. Studies point to significant cognitive improvements among seniors who regularly engage in strategic board game activities.

Best Senior-Friendly Board Games

Testing reveals specific board games deliver consistent engagement while maintaining accessibility for older adults. Data shows varying benefits across different game types:

Cognitive Benefits of Board Games

Harvard Health studies report social interaction through games decreases dementia risk by up to 40%. Regular board game participation shows multiple cognitive advantages:

  • Enhanced memory formation and cognitive skills
  • Improved problem-solving abilities
  • Better concentration and focus
  • Reduced risk of depression
  • Strengthened decision-making capabilities

Board Game Social Interaction Tips

The National Institute on Aging reports three-dimensional game environments demonstrate strong cognitive improvement results. Chess and checkers provide natural starting points, combining simple rules with mental stimulation.

Qwirkle stands out among newer options, merging basic color and shape matching with strategic elements. Regular partner rotation and small tournaments boost social engagement while maintaining cognitive benefits.

Research confirms consistent board game participation correlates with higher cognitive test scores among seniors in their 70s. Testing shows structured game sessions maximize both social connection and mental exercise benefits.

Digital Games for Memory Enhancement

Studies show older adults actively use smartphones and tablets for daily activities, marking a significant shift in technology adoption among seniors. Research data reveals notable cognitive improvements through digital gaming platforms.

Senior-Friendly Mobile Apps

Testing identifies three leading memory-enhancement applications for older adults:

Digital Memory Game Benefits

Research shows seniors demonstrate measurable improvements in recognition memory after two weeks of digital gameplay. Testing reveals multiple cognitive advantages:

  • Enhanced cognitive functions and memory skills
  • Improved reading, writing, and math abilities
  • Better attention span and processing speed
  • Increased problem-solving capabilities

Getting Started with Digital Games

Data points to four key steps for successful digital game adoption:

  • Select user-friendly platforms like  Lumosity  or  Elevate , designed specifically for seniors
  • Begin with free versions to explore features
  • Dedicate 15-45 minutes daily to gameplay
  • Monitor progress through built-in tracking tools

Cognitive benefits including mental exercise  show consistent improvement among senior players. Research indicates brain-training applications demonstrate mild to moderate success in enhancing memory for older adults experiencing age-related cognitive changes.

Social Group Games

Group gaming activities draw 65% of adults over 50, establishing social interaction as essential to senior wellness. Testing shows these gatherings foster lasting connections among participants.

Group Game Recommendations

Popular group activities demonstrate varying levels of physical engagement and social interaction:

Success rates remain high across these options due to their adaptability to different physical capabilities.

Social Benefits for Seniors

Regular group gameplay yields measurable improvements in senior well-being. Studies document multiple advantages:

  • Enhanced mood and reduced stress levels
  • Stronger social bonds and decreased isolation
  • Improved emotional well-being through shared experiences

Social connection through games reaches 58% among senior participants, with female players showing higher  social connection  rates than male counterparts.

Organizing Senior Game Groups

Home-based gatherings attract 65% of  seniors  preference for gameplay locations. Successful group organization requires:

  • Proper lighting and seating arrangements
  • Multiple game options for varied interests
  • Manageable group sizes of 6-8 players
  • Consistent meeting schedules

Leadership rotation among participants strengthens community bonds. Players hosting or leading sessions show increased confidence levels and deeper social connections.

Group gaming benefits extend beyond social interaction – participants demonstrate better mental and physical health outcomes, with longer life expectancy compared to less socially active peers.

Puzzle Games for Mental Agility

Regular puzzle-solving activities boost cognitive function to levels comparable with adults ten years younger, research shows. Testing reveals significant mental acuity improvements among senior puzzle enthusiasts.

Types of Senior-Friendly Puzzles

Research data identifies optimal puzzle formats for cognitive enhancement:

Puzzle Game Cognitive Benefits

Studies demonstrate multiple cognitive improvements among seniors who regularly solve puzzles. Testing reveals several key advantages:

  • Enhanced visual perception and constructional skills
  • Improved working and episodic memory
  • Strengthened  cognitive flexibility and speed
  • Better perceptual reasoning abilities

Puzzle-solving triggers dopamine release, elevating mood and satisfaction levels. Regular participants report decreased stress levels and improved emotional states.

Choosing the Right Difficulty Level

Research indicates 50-100 piece puzzles provide optimal starting points for seniors with mild cognitive decline. Testing supports four key selection criteria:

  • Medium-difficulty initial puzzles
  • Clear, vibrant adult-oriented images
  • Large pieces for enhanced visibility
  • Progressive complexity increases

Data shows 500-piece puzzles suit seniors with minimal cognitive decline, while 13-35 piece options benefit those with advanced conditions. Success rates peak when challenge levels match individual capabilities.

Word Games for Mental Sharpness

Seniors playing crossword puzzles show improved cognition and reduced brain shrinkage compared to other cognitive game players. Research points to significant brain health benefits from regular word game engagement.

Popular Word Game Options

Testing reveals varying effectiveness across different word game formats:

Language Skills Benefits

Regular crossword players demonstrate one-point cognition improvements after 12 weeks. Research documents multiple cognitive advantages:

  • Enhanced memory and cognitive speed
  • Improved verbal learning capabilities
  • Strengthened problem-solving skills
  • Better attention and processing speed

Crossword puzzles match FDA-approved memory-enhancing medication in effectiveness for thinking and memory improvement.

Word Game Difficulty Progression

Medium-difficulty word games, comparable to Thursday New York Times crossword levels, provide optimal challenge balance. Research supports 30-minute sessions four times weekly for best results.

Multiple brain regions activate during crossword solving, creating new neural pathways between previously unconnected concepts. Regular players show measurably better cognitive function than non-players.

Word searches provide entry points for beginners, leading to crosswords and anagrams as skills develop. This structured progression maximizes cognitive benefits while maintaining player engagement.

Movement-Based Interactive Games

Active video games (AVGs) demonstrate significant mobility and balance improvements among older adults. Testing reveals measurable physical benefits across multiple movement-based gaming formats.

Seated Game Options

Three seated activities show consistent effectiveness in testing:

Game modifications accommodate varying physical capabilities, maintaining engagement across different ability levels.

Physical Benefits

Light-to-moderate intensity activity  levels match energy expenditure during active video gameplay. Regular participation yields multiple advantages:

  • Improved balance and coordination
  • Enhanced muscle strength
  • Better hand-eye coordination
  • Increased social interaction

Sessions typically span 40 minutes, supporting both individual and group participation.

Safety Considerations

Supervised programs  demonstrate superior outcomes in movement game implementation. Testing supports four key safety protocols:

  • Proper seating and stability verification
  • 15-minute initial sessions
  • Progressive duration increases
  • Individual ability-based modifications

Wheelchair and walker users show successful participation through adapted gameplay formats. Success rates peak when activity levels match participant capabilities.

Strategy Games for Critical Thinking

Strategy games demonstrate significant brain health benefits among older adults, protecting cognitive reserve and brain function. Testing reveals consistent improvements across multiple cognitive measures.

Easy-to-Learn Strategy Games

Three strategy games stand out for balancing challenge with accessibility:

Decision-Making Benefits

Senior strategy game players show marked improvements in cognitive function. Data points to multiple advantages:

  • Working memory and attention span
  • Processing speed and executive functions
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Quality of life scores

Twelve weeks of gameplay, consisting of two 60-minute sessions weekly, yields measurable cognitive status improvements.

Strategy Game Social Aspects

Strategy games foster valuable social connections while supporting emotional comfort among older adults. Group gameplay sessions enhance mental health through social communication.

Checkers provides an accessible entry point, combining strategic depth with straightforward rules. Chess demonstrates particular effectiveness in cognitive decline prevention. The dual benefits of social interaction and mental exercise create powerful cognitive health outcomes.

Reminiscence Games

Studies show  reminiscence games for seniors  significantly reduce depression symptoms among older adults. Research demonstrates measurable improvements in cognitive function and emotional well-being through memory-focused activities.

Memory-Triggering Games

Testing reveals effectiveness across multiple sensory-focused game formats:

Participants show improved cognitive abilities and enhanced social skills through reminiscence activities. Long-term memory activation combines with social engagement to maximize benefits.

Emotional Benefits

Research documents significant reductions in stress-related symptoms, including headaches, back pain, and concentration issues. Data shows multiple psychological improvements:

  • Improved self-esteem and sense of personal value
  • Enhanced communication skills
  • Reduced feelings of isolation
  • Strengthened family connections
  • Better overall psychological well-being

Creating Custom Reminiscence Games

Familiar items and photographs increase activity effectiveness. Testing supports four key development strategies:

  • Select 12 meaningful photos featuring family members or special places
  • Create matching card pairs using durable, glossy materials
  • Include a mix of recent and older memories
  • Add written prompts to encourage storytelling

Reminiscence therapy  demonstrates peak effectiveness when combining visual, auditory, and tactile experiences. Multi-sensory engagement strengthens family bonds while supporting cognitive function across various ability levels.

Multiplayer Online Games

Recent studies report a 33% increase in senior online gaming participation. Data shows 15% of video gamers now exceed age 55.

Senior-Friendly Online Platforms

Research identifies multiple platforms matching senior gaming preferences:

Virtual Social Connection Benefits

Studies demonstrate improved cognition, memory, and fine motor skills among seniors using technology for social connection. Testing reveals multiple advantages:

  • Enhanced community connections
  • Improved cognitive performance
  • Better  hand-eye coordination

Getting Started Online

Research supports four key steps for online gaming adoption:

  • Choose user-friendly platforms like AARP games
  • Start with familiar game types (chess, word games)
  • Use Discord or similar platforms for voice chat
  • Join senior-specific gaming communities

A 93-year-old gamer’s recent gaming PC purchase demonstrates age-independent participation potential. Platforms like GrandPad enable family connections through gaming activities.

Safety protocols recommend username creation instead of real names and careful personal information management. Success rates peak when balancing social engagement with privacy considerations.

Comparison Table

Research data across multiple game formats reveals varying benefits, player requirements, and time investments. Testing demonstrates distinct advantages for different cognitive and social needs:

Research demonstrates multiple benefits beyond entertainment value for senior gaming activities. Testing across formats from classic card games to  digital games  reveals distinct advantages – card games strengthen social connections, board games enhance strategic thinking, and digital platforms improve memory function.

Data confirms measurable improvements across multiple metrics. Board game players show 15% lower dementia risk, while digital gaming participants demonstrate enhanced recognition memory within two weeks. Group gaming activities increase social connections for 58% of senior participants.

Success rates peak when game selection matches individual capabilities and interests. Testing supports progression from familiar formats like card games toward new challenges. Regular participation maintains cognitive function across traditional, digital, and movement-based gaming platforms.

Research indicates 15-30 minutes of daily gameplay delivers significant cognitive benefits. Data emphasizes consistent engagement over difficulty levels. Optimal results emerge from enjoyable activities adapted to individual needs while supporting mental acuity.

Q1. What are some engaging activities for seniors beyond traditional games?  In addition to classic games, seniors can enjoy activities like gardening, arts and crafts, book clubs, gentle exercise classes, and volunteering. These activities promote physical and mental well-being while providing opportunities for social interaction.

Q2. How can digital games benefit seniors’ cognitive health?  Digital games can enhance memory, improve focus, and boost problem-solving skills in seniors. Studies show that just two weeks of playing digital games can lead to notable improvements in recognition memory and overall cognitive function.

Q3. Are there games specifically designed to help seniors with memory issues?  Yes, there are games tailored for seniors with memory concerns. Reminiscence games, which use familiar photos or objects to trigger memories, can be particularly effective. These games can help reduce depression symptoms and improve overall psychological well-being in older adults.

Q4. What are some easy-to-learn strategy games for seniors?  Checkers, Qwirkle, and Backgammon are excellent strategy games for seniors. They offer a good balance of challenge and accessibility, helping to improve problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities without being overly complex.

Q5. How can multiplayer online games benefit seniors socially?  Multiplayer online games can help reduce feelings of isolation in seniors by providing virtual social connections. These games offer opportunities to interact with others, join communities, and even connect with family members, all of which can enhance cognitive performance and overall well-being.

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11 Most Stimulating Brain Games for Seniors

From actual board games and card games to apps and computer games, and everything in between. Everyone is always searching for a new way to get their brains working more. Whether it be just to curb boredom, learn something new, or stay mentally fit, games can help improve our everyday lives, keep us sharp, and improve our problem-solving skills. While forgetfulness can be a natural part of aging, using these types of brain games can slow down the process. Much like physical activity helps your body stay healthier, brain games and even puzzles have the same effect on your brain . Let’s dive into a list of some of the best brain games out there, and all the different ways you can play them.

A game that is readily available across multiple platforms. You can find this game on any app store, preloaded on your computer, and of course, there’s always the classic playing cards. Whichever way you choose to play this nostalgic game, it can enhance your brain’s ability to recognize patterns and give your memory a significant workout!

 Checkers

Checkers is another fun game that gets your brain working hard. It requires strategy and works your hand-eye coordination (fine motor skills). While game pieces are typically smaller, there are many jumbo versions out there so that anyone can play this classic game. There are also many ways to play with friends and family online or through mobile apps. If you’re looking for a solo challenge, the computer is always a worthy opponent.

Read Next: 10 Proactive Choices You Can Make Today to Avoid Dementia

Chess, while similar to checkers in the realm of strategy, requires more thinking ahead, strategy, and prediction on the players’ part. Like checkers, this game challenges one’s fine motor skills, comes in various sizes, shapes, and themes, and promotes cognitive agility beneficial for seniors. Play it on your computer or download a game on your mobile device to challenge others. 

Scrabble, a timeless word game, offers an array of benefits beyond simple amusement. By engaging with this classic, you’re not just indulging in a game,  you’re also expanding your vocabulary, increasing brain power, and refining your fine motor skills. There are so many different online and app-based versions of this game, like Words with Friends , Scrabble Go, Wordle, and Wordfeud, all designed to keep your mind stimulated. 

Moreover, the market is filled with diverse board games that share similarities with Scrabble Games such as Typo, Dabble, Pass the Pen, and Quiddler offer unique twists on the traditional spelling game. 

Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles are a fantastic way to give your brain a great workout. According to Health IQ, studies show that people who regularly complete crossword puzzles can have a cognitive function 10 years younger than their actual age. Doing crossword puzzles is a great way to challenge your mind’s recall capabilities and can even help improve your ability to focus. In addition, it helps work executive function as well as memory. Available in both print and digital, the opportunities to do crosswords are endless. 

Sudoku engages your logical thinking skills as well as cognitive capabilities. It works the frontal lobe of your brain which doesn’t get used as often and is in charge of manipulating sequences of numbers and letters. This game is made to keep your mind incredibly active, think in sequences, solve problems, and plan ahead. 

BINGO 

BINGO is a fun and very social game that is offered all over the country. You can’t go wrong with BINGO! You can play in your senior living community , local libraries, and even churches. Not only does it engage your auditory system, but it also works your hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. And on top of it all, since the game is usually played in a social setting, it encourages social interaction, which is crucial to engaging your brain. 

Trivia Games

Trivia games offer a unique blend of social interaction and mental stimulation. Among the most popular are Trivial Pursuit, tune-recognition games, and I Should Have Known. There are also a host of other online options available, providing easy access for group gameplay. Trivia games challenge the brain’s memory and recall abilities and almost always end in a good laugh. 

Puzzles can be a great way to pass the time as well as challenge your brain. They can be done alone or with a friend or two. No matter how you complete your puzzle, you can be assured that your brain will be hard at work. With strategy and problem-solving skills working their hardest, puzzles are a great resource to have. Not only are they typically inexpensive, but they come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and designs. The options are endless when it comes to puzzles. 

Brain Game Apps

Brain game apps for your phone or tablet have become a popular choice in today’s digital age. From Brainwell to Positive Activity Jackpot, and everything in between you can rest assured that there is an endless amount of games out there to help your brain get a good workout. These engaging apps stimulate attention, work your memory, and help with problem-solving skills, as well as a host of other cognitive functions. Hop on your phone or tablet app store today and check out all they have to offer. 

Physical Activity

Physical activity is an often overlooked yet effective form of brain exercise. These options can vary from walking and playing ‘I Spy,” to more structured activities like doing yoga. Working your body also works your brain! Your gross motor and fine motor skills are incredibly important and getting those neurons to fire the right way can be enhanced by moving your body. And the best part is, you don’t even have to go do some crazy hard workout. Simple activities like walking will give your brain a great workout While also promoting physical wellness!

The Bottom Line on Brain Games for Seniors

As we age, our cognitive abilities may naturally change. Engaging in stimulating activities like brain games can be a fun way to maintain cognitive function and challenge your mind. While research on the long-term benefits of brain training is ongoing, these games can still be an enjoyable way to stay engaged and mentally active. Whatever your interests, there’s likely a brain game out there for you!

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Best Brain Games for Seniors to Stay Sharp

In the golden years, maintaining a sharp mind is essential.

Brain games are a scientifically endorsed way for seniors to enhance memory and cognitive functions.

In this article, we will explore various entertaining games that promise both fun and mental agility, setting the stage for a cognitively rich retirement.

Sudoku , a renowned number puzzle, tests logical thinking and pattern recognition. The goal is simple – fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, row, and the nine 3x3 grids contain all digits from 1 to 9. Engaging in Sudoku is a fantastic way for seniors to develop problem-solving skills and enhance concentration.

Soduko

2. Crossword Puzzles

Crossword Puzzles offer a vocabulary-enriching challenge, where players fill a grid based on clues. Each word intersects with others, making it a favorite among word game enthusiasts. Solving crosswords stimulates the brain, improves vocabulary, and fosters critical thinking – key ingredients for maintaining a healthy mind.

3. Jigsaw Puzzles

Jigsaw Puzzles

Jigsaw Puzzles involve piecing together a picture from individual fragments. It’s a therapeutic activity that enhances visual-spatial reasoning and attention to detail. For those seeking a relaxing yet mentally stimulating pastime, jigsaw puzzles are a perfect choice.

4. Lumosity

Lumosity is a popular online platform offering a variety of brain games designed to enhance cognitive functions. With personalized daily workouts, seniors can challenge memory, attention, and more. It’s a convenient way to engage the brain and track cognitive patterns over time.

5. Brainwell

Brainwell offers a diverse array of games focusing on memory, attention, reasoning, and language skills. Designed by neuroscientists, this app provides a daily dose of cognitive exercise, making brain training accessible and fun for seniors.

Elevate

Elevate is a brain training app offering personalized games designed to boost productivity, earning power, and self-confidence. It’s an excellent choice for seniors looking to sharpen a variety of cognitive skills in a fun and engaging way.

Peak delivers a range of brain games and puzzles aimed at enhancing cognitive skills. With daily challenges and progress tracking, it offers a comprehensive brain training experience for seniors seeking mental stimulation.

8. Happy Neuron

Happy Neuron offers a personalized brain training experience with games that adapt to individual performance. Targeting memory, attention, language, and logic skills, it's a versatile platform for seniors seeking a tailored cognitive workout.

9. CogniFit

CogniFit boasts a variety of brain games designed by neuroscientists to enhance cognitive abilities. With personalized training programs and progress assessments, it's a favorite among seniors looking to maintain and improve mental agility.

10. Brain Age: Concentration Training

Brain Age, available on Nintendo platforms, provides an assortment of games and puzzles designed to stimulate different areas of the brain. It’s a delightful option for seniors looking to mix entertainment with mental exercise.

11. Fit Brains Trainer

Fit Brains Trainer

Fit Brains Trainer offers a comprehensive array of brain games designed to improve cognitive skills such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving. With its wide range of activities, it’s a favored tool among seniors striving to keep their minds agile.

12. Clockwork Brain

Clockwork Brain features a series of fun and challenging games aimed at stimulating attention, memory, and reasoning skills. Its visually appealing interface and diverse game set make it an engaging choice for seniors looking to boost their cognitive abilities.

13. Memorado

Memorado brings forth a selection of brain games tailored to enhance memory, focus, and logical thinking. With personalized workout plans, it serves as a handy platform for seniors aiming to improve and maintain their cognitive health.

14. NeuroNation

NeuroNation offers science-based exercises designed to improve memory, concentration, and logical thinking. With personalized training plans, it’s a valuable resource for seniors looking to enhance their cognitive abilities and mental fitness.

Keeping the mind active is vital for seniors, and the variety of brain games discussed offer both entertainment and cognitive benefits.

Whether it’s puzzles, personalized exercises, or challenges, there’s something for everyone to help maintain mental sharpness.

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Memory Health Made Easy

31 Best Fun Brain Games For Seniors and Adults [Free to Paid]

by David Norris | Published: May 22, 2020 | Last updated: May 26, 2020 | Blog Post , Brain Games

problem solving games for seniors

Bonus Material:  The 9 Must Dos For Your Brain To Thrive For Life ( The Secret Sauce: Brain Boosters to Stay Sharp)

Boost Your Brain Power With 31 Fun Brain Games For Seniors and Adults (Free to Paid)

In today’s post, I’m going to share with you the Best Free And Paid Brain Boosting Games to help you stay sharp (lockdown or not).

Whether you’re into brain training or good ol’ fashioned memory games, this ultimate list of fun brain games is for you!

You can start with free brain training games right of the bat or you can get more technical with free to paid brain training apps ( we’ve got you covered) 

This is not another Sudoku list – far from it.  You have in your hands a complete list of brain training apps, websites, games and daily exercises (device free).

It’s a platform friendly list. (android or mac users welcome).

The primary goal here is for you to have happy neurons for life. It needn’t be painful or tiresome so lets make it fun.   

In fact, I share with you the same information I give my clients so they can:

  • Improve their brain performance
  • Live fiercely and independently 

Commonly it takes just a few extra tweaks to boost their brain health  [ Make sure you grab the free bonus The 9 Must Dos For Your Brain To Thrive For Life: THIS IS the secret sauce to stay sharp)

Brain Training Evidence Finger Dementia Prevention Study Results

These fun brain games for seniors have been selected based on research principles. Importantly, it’s not just one thing that improves our brain performance but many.

Findings from studies like the FINGER STUDY shows us you can improve your brain performance.

The missing ingredient in most “brain games for seniors” is the lack of fun- the emotional charged good stuff.

AND fun really matters.

The Best 31 Fun Brain Games For Seniors List Helps You

  • Cut through the anxiety noise of COVID-19
  • If you’re having trouble with your memory, forgetting names & words on occasion, but put it down to “just something that happens”. Realize you can change that outcome and improve your memory significantly and this is a good place to start 
  • Put you in a better “State” to remember
  • Lowers your brain “Performance” age
  • Increase your memory, 
  • Sharpen your reasoning powers
  • Develop whip like working memory 
  • Expand your creative thinking
  • Accelerate your speed of processing
  • Create nurturing relationships at a time when this really matters

9 Brain Boosters to Make The Most Out Of Fun Brain Games (The Secret Sauce)

In This Article I Share

  • Science For Regular People:  Online Brain Games For Seniors [ Let’s clear this up]
  • Why “Fun” Brain Games For Seniors Really Matters
  • What You Need To Know About Doing The Best Brain Workouts
  • Must Know Brain Booster Tip to Squeeze The Most Out of the Brain Games
  • The 2 Essential Ingredients To Help You Grow and Connect Your Brain Cells

The 31 Best Fun Brain Games For Seniors and Adults

  • Exercise Games with Novel Brain Twist
  • Fun Problem Solving Games ( Groups and Solo even in lockdown!)
  • The Not So Usual Fun Memory Games
  • 4 Science Backed Online Brain Games  
  • Fun Navigation + Problem Brain Games 
  • Fun Every Day Games to Bust Out Of Brain Autopilot
  • I’m In Isolation- How Can I Do This?

Do These 5 Things More Often to Milk The Brain Changing Benefits of Fun Brain Games

The science behind online brain games for seniors and adults.

Let’s Be Clear About A Few Things about Online Brain Games

Doing these exercises is based on an underlying assumption, Brian Games Work.

  • That there is a cognitive improvement benefit .

In 2014, two large groups of scientists, health professionals joisted over the pros, cons and evidence of “Online Brain Training” and put forth a consensus statement

One Side Argued- Against

“there is little evidence that playing brain games improves underlying broad cognitive abilities, or that it enables one to better navigate a complex realm of everyday life.” 

Standford_Brain Training Evidence_Scientific Community

The Other State – For

“a substantial and growing body of evidence shows that certain cognitive training regimens can significantly improve cognitive function, including in ways that generalize to everyday life.” 

Cognitive Data Brain Training Evidence

Compelling Strong Research Evidence 

The Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) trial was first large-scale, randomized trial to test the long-term outcomes of cognitive training effects on prevention of decline in daily function. 

Active Study Brain Training Discussion

So Where Does That Leave Us?

  • There is a big divide in the expert opinion field 
  • Driving this divide further is the structure of the research not controlling for the Perceived Opinion Benefit that your belief in the benefit may also have an effect on your results

Why Fun Brain Games for Seniors and Adults Really Matters

Brain Fit with Fun and Performance

We could take a large bridging step here and say that when an activity is matched to our skills, motivation, perception of pleasure – you’re going to be better at.  

Emotions and Memory Performance

  • Positive memories contain more contextual details – there for more accurate memory
  • Emotional arousal not “importance of information” which helps your memory.
  • Emotional arousal ( upbeat- happy- joyful yes all aspects of fun) appear to keep us in a readiness to respond so we’ve better attention 5.

Mood and Memory Performance

When your emotional state is positive – you tend to remember more positive events and the same goes with negative..

Also, you’re better able to remember when your mood matches the state in which you took in the information so mood matching is important. 

So, let’s keep it up beat

Brain Booster Tip: 

 Nearly 70% of baby neurons don’t survive into “adulthood”. 

So we often miss out on the power of integrating them into the rich neural network of our brain. 

2 Essential Ingredients

The 2 essential ingredients to help with this maturing of brain cells.

It appears you need 2 essential ingredients to help your neurons develop.

  • Raise your heart rate is important to helping create new neurons, as well as 
  • Novel, challenging and consistency helps them grow into adults

Here’s What You Need To Know About Creating The Best Type of Fun Brain Workouts For Seniors

It’s clear exercise improves your brain function. How well it appears to be a number of things like:

  • Creating new blood vessels ( referred to as angiogenesis), 
  • Creating of new neurons (neurogenesis), 
  • Creating new synapses (synaptogenesis), as well as the
  • Production of brain growth factors called neurotrophins. One of the well researched and  stand out neurotrophins is called Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).  

Harvard Psychiatrist John J Ratey, MD most notably referred to this as “Miracle Grow” for the brain, or as I call it “Dynamic Lifter”. 

Movement + Raise Your Heart Rate + Mental Challenge

Linking movement, increasing your heart rate and adding in mentally stimulating + FUN activities together is one way to hit health pinata to boost your brain performance.

You’re activating many senses, many internal body processes to help your memory health.

If you’re not up for the movement challenges at least get a 20 min of effort walking in beforehand!

If you’re asking “How can you keep your brain active” then this list Is-A-Must-For-You.

But David, 

“ I’ve been doing sudoku, I’ve been doing crosswords Pfft….  I do cryptic puzzles

Is this good for me?”

If I had a dollar every time I got asked this question.

Well I’d have a few dollars.

This is not a “Classic List” Seniors and Adults “fun games” you might be expecting.

  Far from it.

Below, I’ve assessed the following games under a lens of 

  • Fun : Emotion and mood has a powerful effect on you memory performance
  • Social : There are so many wonderful brain boosting opportunities when we do it together AND really, truly communicate.  Yes, even in the time of Coronavirus we can do this.
  • Hits the Brain Cognitive Skills that commonly decline as we get older
  • Are relatively Challenging

Are Diverse , they hit many brain functions

Exercise (Movement)  Games + Mental Challenges: 

Benefits: Raise the Heart Rate, Body Awareness,  Problem Solving Skills and Memory and Communication  (Movement Problems)

Here’s How Can You Dial Challenged Up or Down The Fun Brain Game Recommendations 

Dial Down: Difficulties with balance or endurance- do this with supporters like a handrail,  bench top, large sofa as a support

Dial Up: Increase weights, changes in heights, crawl through spaces  (under broom sticks), balance, non dominant hands

1. The Floor Is Lava

Yes the floor is lava, place objects on the floor, create an obstacle course at home

  • No “stuff” use the tiles, the floor markings, post it notes as zones, Using masking tape as “beams” have a destination- The morning cup of tea run could be soo  much more interesting
  • Share your adventure with friends
  • Need inspiration? With over 112million views  and to really have some giggles this is what you’re doing here.

A must watch for inspiration and a giggle or 2. ( It’s PGish)  

2. House Jenga- Big Blocks or Little Blocks

What You Need

  • Jenga Blocks, or uniform timber rectangles ( not too big as the bigger the block , the harder they fall )
  • Short game – who can take out the most blocks in 5minutes
  • Long games – how long can the game go for
  • Change the position of the game floor, standing, standing one legged, you get the idea
  • Create a memory game ( word building or like stacking you have to remember the words that come before
  • Initiation game: Great with a fast game, include a category lets say African Animals: you alternate with your partner in physical and mental dual
  • Downscale – sitting, don’t re-stack on top instead remove a tile and place to the side.

3. Pipeline

You could do this social distancing style – but not recommended – requires 2 plus people

What You Need 

  • Grab 2 x pipe of PVC tubing 90mm wide by 900mm long (wide enough for a tennis ball). Some people have created “half tubes” where the pipe is cut in half making a channel if you will but this isn’t needed.
  • You’ll need a tennis ball

It gets harder with a smaller and smoother ball like a large marble or golf ball

How You Play 

  • Set a length, a course, an obstacle course.
  • Starting at one end, place the ball into the pipe whilst another person holds the pipe relatively level. The ball is to stay within tube and is to pass to the next person who is also holding the second tube
  • The first person moves around the other person quickly to get the ball and so on

The goal to get through the course, distance in the quickest time 

Great for challenges in households, between households, within communities or workplaces. 

Fun Brain Exercise_Movement Games  and Mental Challenges Ideas

4. Movement Deck of Cards

  • Against each month assign an exercise, a movement, a task to each number and picture card in suit of a deck of cards. So there are 13 exercises matched from 2 – Aces
  • Daily or for when you need something novel unplanned shuffle a deck of cards and deal yourself or others 1 -2- 3 cards ( or more)

This is a lot of fun when you do this as a movement group. The collective groan, the sighs the yippies when a card is drawn adds to the experience. 

This is very doable as a group online.

Benefits of dancing on your brain health

5. Dancing – It Goes Without Saying This One Is  A Good 

Now, I appreciate this may not be “fun” for everyone.  

On the upside dancing has been observed to improve processing speed, build stronger, denser neural pathways.

This means that if you engage in jazz, jive, samba or another form of structured dance, can help boost your brain powers, especially for skills like convergent thinking.

  • Convergent thinking skills help you identify a single, appropriate answer to a problem. 
  • On the other side, divergent thinking helps you identify many solutions to a problem. For this skill doing more free form types of dance such as hip-hop or even Zumba.

Boxer-cise is another non learned, rapidly changing movement program. 

Yoga can also be in this category as well.  

Fun Group Problem Solving Brain Games For Seniors

Fun Group Brain Problem Solving Games For Seniors

6. Laser Webs

This fun brain games stack brain skills of Movement, Balance, Body Awareness, Auditory Processing and Memory plus more.

  • Some furniture

How You Play

  • Have a person set up a “spider web or laser web” using furniture or objects in the room 
  • The other person doesn’t see this “set up”
  • Now you’ve a few options here- the person does it with their eyes open and  so in that instance – what’s the point of the not seeing the set up OR
  • You could have the other person do this blindfolded with the other person either providing verbal instructions or allows the other person to do this in silence.

The Problem solving element here is when the blindfolded person is supported with verbal instructions. 

Ok, this no doubt will need some self assessment whether this is a good fit for you. 

It can be dialled down and can be a classical obstacle course. Race yourself against the clock.

7. Jigsaw Puzzle Traders

Hits the cognitive skills of – language, visual processing, working memory, problem solving plus more

  • 1 Puzzle divided randomly between a minimum of  2 People 

The aim is to build your pieces into the largest piece of the puzzle as quickly as possible. 

This means you’ll need to trade, swap, negotiate with your partner to do so.

Puzzles are fun, this adds just that little twist

8. Spaghetti Towers

Can be done solo, as a team and as a large group 

  • 20 pieces of uncooked spaghetti ( limiting the number places a greater demand on fine movement coordination )
  • Marshmallows
  • Build the tallest tower using the marshmallows and spaghetti within a certain time frame
  • Can be dialled up with movement limitations- one leg, one armed – great to challenge the non dominant side
  • Do it as a paired household team where you both can’t use your dominant hand but can help each other out at the same time
  • Change the height of your starting surface ( on the floor say on on cooking pan cause you’ll want those marshmallows for later right? )
  • Dialled down – use more rigid “poles” like skewers

Fun Memory Brain Games For Seniors

Fun Memory Brain Games for Seniors

9. Name That Era, Place, Object  

  • Set up a slide show, play it with neighbours or family or friends
  • Like visual trivia
  • With the more unusual objects you can tier it with questions like- when was it made, what was its use ( extra bonus points for funny reasons)

In a similar way you can play “Name that Tune”

10. Two Pack Playing Cards Memory 

  • The twist is to use slightly different packs because you want to match exactly
  • My son challenged me with a two pack of dinosaur cards. Yep, I was taken to the cleaners 🙁

How You Play  

  • Add movement challenges by placing it on the floor
  • Add a time pressure ( must take a go within 10seconds)
  • Place the cards down in different orientations is a real memory challenge as your environmental cues are taken away. You’d rely on these when they are in rows
  • Solo Games- compete against a friend, family or neighbour

11. Virtual Guess Who

  • Write down an animal, character name, book title etc 
  • Can be themed – Movie, Author, Book Title but this gives more “context” to the answer. 
  • The other person needs to guess out with yes / no questions 
  • The aim is to get your answer out as quickly as possible

Online Brain Training Games (Free to Paid)

Paid and Free Online Brain Training Games

Benefits of Online Brain Training Games:

These games are novel and entertaining. Can be done solo or in a group.  To milk the brain benefits I suggest those doing those games that hit hearing, auditory processing speed, vision, visual processing speed and memory skills.

I do find they can be a little monotonous after a while so the “ fun and novel” experience will likely wear off.  These programs make the novelty and challenge criteria BUT they lack other areas mentioned earlier.  

Free and Paid Online Brain Training Games (App and Websites)

There are Free and Paid versions of these brain games. 

12. Brain HQ www.brainhq.com/

  • “ Think faster, focus better, and remember more with BrainHQ —Improve your brain health with clinically proven brain training exercises.”

13. Brain Turk www.brainturk.com  

  • For kids and adults the “Brainturk games are designed to develop your intellectual, motor skills, emotional, episodic memory and communication skills.” Free and Paid options

14. PEAK www.peak.net/  

Push your cognitive skills to their limits and use your time better with fun, challenging games and with fun, stimulating games and workouts.  

15. Lumosity   www.lumosity.com/

“Free in the iOS Store and Android Play Store, Lumosity offers an ever-expanding set of cognitive and scientific games designed to improve your working memory and stimulate your brain on a daily basis.”

# Lumosity: These guys did get in a bit of legal trouble with their marketing a few years ago BUT you’re so much more informed about the PROS and CONS of online brain games now- aren’t you?

Fun Navigation + Problem Brain Challenges for Seniors

Fun Navigation Problem Brain Games For Seniors

16. Treasure Hunt or Activity Brain Challenges 

Set a daily / weekly challenge or hunt to achieve a goal this can include:

Treasure hunts are fun as they can be cryptic as well with the clues that you use or are given. “You’ll find me where there is x ( cryptic clue)”

The limitation here is your imagination and that’s what I like about this activity. 

It  challenges you to push beyond the normal and to break out into new and novel patterns using abstract reasoning, problem solving and creativity.!

Treasure Hunt or Activity Challenge:  They can both follow a similar format 

  • Write a 80 word poem
  • Wear a blue something today which is visible
  • Find 20 things that start with 
  • List 3 things you’re grateful for 5 days in a row
  • Solve a sudoku / crossword puzzle ( ok it had to make the list somewhere)
  • Write a letter to someone
  • Create a picture diary of the day and share it with someone

Fun and Novel Daily Life Activities ( With A Brain Twist)

Practice Neurobics To Keep Your Brain Sharp with Daily Routine Challenges 

  • This is about breaking up your daily activities like brushing your teeth and use as many senses as possible + movement + environment changes 

Neurobics_ Novel Daily Life Activities With A Brain Challenge Twist

Here’s Very Practical, Immediately Doable Examples of How to Bust Through Daily Brain Autopilot [14 examples]  

Hand Dominant Mix Ups

  • Brush your teeth with the non dominant hand
  • Drink with your non dominant hand
  • Play a musical instrument with your non dominant hand
  • Play cards with your non dominant hand
  • Play scrabble with your non dominant hand
  • Play “anything” with your non dominant hand

*You may need a cue to do this at first from notes to bracelets to prompt you to change. You can extra complexity or richness with movement, doing it to the beat of the music for example.

Hidden Guess What

  • Guess the coins in your pocket or a sock – do it with your non dominant side as well
  • In fact layer this with a mystery box of items and place them all in a sock, box of sand/ rice ( possibly not the most practical) 

Opening The Door Eyes Close 

25. Getting the keys out, finding the right one, orientating itto the lock and being aware of your body are all challenged with this exercise

Eating Eyes Closed 

26. How often are you truly aware  of the feed you eat?  An eyes closed eating experience dials you into one of the most powerful senses when eating – smell. You’ll also challenge  your hearing, awareness of food in your mouth, you’ll like be aware of other factors like your hunger or lack of it as well.

  • You could also add placement of food onto your fork or spoon but this could get messy quickly – just saying.

Attend To The Everyday

27. Count Your Breaths in a certain amount of time or when doing an activity

28. Count the number of simple beauties in the day you experience – it may be birds, plants, people, words, sounds

Different Routes to the ……..

29. Almost like the floor is lava, think  of different, new pathways to destination in the home, yard, complex or your community

Chalk It Up Course

30. On your driveway, parking areas, basement where ever you have access to a cement walking slab, using chalk create a movement course for you and your neighbours to do

  • Create chalk scoreboard of times!

Printable Fun Brain Games

31. There is a forest supply of printable activities out there searching for “Printable Free Brain Games” will give you more options than I care to poke a stick at

  • BUT beware these are very narrow in their brain skills and sensory experiences which going full circle to the top of the article are missing.
  • Make sure exercise is part of this.

HELP! I’m In Isolation – How Can I Do This?

There are many communication platforms that can help with connecting with friends and other “gamers”. Here’s technology options for either video or “non video” like texting.

Video Support Conferencing Services To Help With Gaming With Others

Video Conference Tools To Help Support Fun Brain Gaming with Others

Zoom : https://zoom.us/meeting

  • Has a free version which allows you to host multiple video connections in a “room” 

FaceTime – In Itunes app store

  • iphone to iphone app with the more recent phones allowing you to have many video connections

Google Hangouts 

  • For Android and Iphones

Skype : https://www.skype.com/en/

  • Like Zoom and has been around for a long time
  • Stay in touch! Free online calls, messaging, affordable international calling to mobiles or landlines and Skype for Business for effective collaboration.

Non Video – Text, Images

All SMS services listed above allow you to set up groups and you can access these tools via your relevant app store.

5 Tips To Change Your Brain With Brain Games

  • Challenge: Keep your level of difficulty up around a 6- 8 out of 10 level of effort
  • Novelty : Mix it up, keep it new
  • Real World: Doing these games, but nothing beats real world activities that have so many cognitive challenges to it. 
  • Raise the heart rate
  • HAVE FUN 🙂 

Look, there are more activities here than you’d likely need to get you through the next pandemic lock down. 

Final Tips To Help Make Fun Brain Games Work At Home

  • Start with One and .. Have Fun
  • Play with it for a few days, maybe a week
  • Build out a “Home Olympics” challenge board

So, the question is which one are you going to do?

  • Movement + problem solving
  • Daily Brain Autopilot Circuit Breakers

What interests you the most?   

Comment below, what are you doing, what did you like, what would you like more of?  – love to hear from you [Plus a little thank you gift when you do]

  • Stanford Scientific Concensus
  • Cognitive Training Data  
  • https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0146167203253481
  • Active Study
  • https://www.pnas.org/content/99/6/4115

Can’t Go Past These Memory Health Made Easy Podcast Episode Recommendations

  • All About Brain Training – Do Brain Training Games Really Work? 
  • What we get wrong about memory loss: Your Body’s Wear and Tear and Memory Loss: The Biggest Things We Get Wrong with Prof. Zoltan Sarnyai

About The Author

About The Author

David Norris is an occupational therapist who has been in this practice for 20 years.

He has dealt with a lot of clients who seek help with their memory loss problems. David began asking himself about how these people can get ahead of these problems. It is then that he started teaching his clients how to improve their brain health to prevent memory loss.

David Norris is also the director and founder of Occupational Therapy Brisbane.

Disclaimer: Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

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11 Best Mental Games for the Elderly

games for the elderly

Games have been a part of human society for centuries. They are not only a source of entertainment but also have several benefits. Games can help develop cognitive skills, improve social interactions, and provide a sense of community. As we age, games become even more crucial, especially for the elderly. In this article, we will discuss the importance of games for the elderly and the various types of games that can be beneficial for them.

It is not just physical exercise that our bodies need – mental exercise can help our brains remain sharp. Dementia becomes a looming fear the older we get. Mental exercise through games for the elderly will help keep it at bay. Hey, it’s fun and exciting. Everyone loves games, especially those tailored for us.

Web MD insists that even 5 minutes a day of brain exercise can help the elderly. However, it is not a panacea. It takes time. Using your brain will help when you need to use your brain. Don’t expect overnight changes. However, if seniors continually challenge themselves then it will make a difference to their brain health.

Table of Contents

Games for the Elderly

Playing games for the elderly improves their mental health and helps to keep their minds sharp. By playing games, seniors can develop social connections with those they are around. This helps to combat the isolation that so many seniors feel.

The National Institute on Aging has concluded that by playing games, seniors may improve or help their cognitive abilities. Other studies have concluded that “playing games can improve physical and cognitive abilities, reduce stress levels, and enhance mood. Playing games can also help seniors develop social connections, combat isolation, and maintain independence.”

Mental Benefits of Seniors Playing Games

Playing games can also provide several mental benefits for the elderly. Here are some mental benefits of playing games for the elderly:

  • Improved cognitive function: Games that require seniors to think and strategize can help improve their cognitive function.
  • Enhanced memory: Games that require seniors to recall information can help improve their memory. For instance, playing memory games can help seniors improve their short-term memory.
  • Improved mood and mental well-being: Games can be an effective tool to reduce stress levels and improve mental health. It can reduce the risk of depression and other health issues associated with social isolation.
  • Connecting with family and friends: By playing games together, seniors can engage in social interactions and build connections with their family and friends. It also provides a sense of companionship and support, which can be especially important for seniors who live alone or far away from their loved ones.

Great Games for Seniors

Each person has different needs and abilities. Not all games are suitable for each person. One will get more out of a game if they enjoy it. Some just do not enjoy jigsaw puzzles while for others, it may be their first choice when choosing which game to play.

Mental games are those that require thinking and strategizing. By regularly playing these games and therefore by being engaged in games related to memory and reasoning skills, these skills will improve as your brain health improves. As the saying goes: use it or lose it.

Per Medical News Today : “Brain exercises may help boost and maintain brain function. Memory games, learning new skills, crosswords, and even video games may help.” Thus to improve memory function and thinking skills, you must use your brain every day. Harvard Health studies have shown that it takes about six months to see the results of brain exercises. It takes time but playing games is fun and not to be discounted.

11 Best Mental Games for Seniors

These games can help improve cognitive function and memory. Here are some of the best mental games for the elderly:

Bingo is a classic game that can be played by seniors of all ages. It involves marking off numbers on a card as they are called out. Bingo can help improve memory and cognitive function. You can play online as well as in a bingo hall. Playing with others is more fun as you can enjoy social interaction.

bingo

2. Scrabble

Scrabble is a word game that can help seniors improve their vocabulary and keep their minds sharp. It involves creating words using tiles with different letters and values. Each player needs to recall words and make decisions regarding where on the board to place their word. The game is engaging and will help to slow the progression of cognitive impairment for those who play it often.

scrabble, games for elderly

Sudoku is a number game that can help seniors improve their problem-solving skills and memory. It involves filling in a grid with numbers, making sure that each row and column contains all and only the numbers from 1 to 9. Start with the easy games to play before moving to the intermediate and harder games. There are a variety of sudoku games that can be purchased. Just remember to get a large print so it is easier to read.

sudoku, games for elderly

4. Puzzle Games

Puzzle games are those that involve solving puzzles, such as jigsaw puzzles or crossword puzzles. These games can help improve cognitive function and memory. Players must concentrate on the puzzle. All parts of the brain must be used as the game demands creativity as well as logic.

Jigsaw Puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles are a popular pastime enjoyed by people of all ages. They involve assembling various interlocking puzzle pieces to recreate a complete image. Working on jigsaw puzzles can provide a sense of satisfaction, relaxation, and an opportunity to exercise problem-solving and spatial reasoning skills. Larger pieces are easier for seniors to handle.

jigsaw puzzles games for the elderly

Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles can be a beneficial tool for seniors to enhance their vocabulary and cognitive function. This engaging activity requires filling a grid with words that correspond to the given clues. By participating in crossword puzzles, seniors can actively stimulate their mental abilities and improve their linguistic skills.

crossword puzzles-games for the elderly

5. Solitaire

Solitaire is a fun game that can be played alone or with others. It can easily keep one occupied for long periods of time. There are many sites online that provide solitaire games for the elderly.

This game requires focus and attention to detail, which can help improve cognitive abilities such as memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. Playing solitaire can also help the elderly relax and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.

Solitaire can be played on the internet “for free” or you can purchase a handheld game from Amazon. The choice depends upon the person. The internet is free and fast, depending on your home internet speed, but you can take the handheld version everywhere.

solitaire games for the elderly

Wordle comes out daily in the New York Times. You must use your reasoning skills to figure out the answer with the clues given. You start with a blank screen and as you choose a 5-letter word. The letters change color alerting you as to whether those letters are in the final wordle and whether they are in the correct position in the word.

You get 6 changes to choose the right wordle. The first choice is just luck. After that, it takes reasoning. The more you play, the better you get at solving the puzzle. You can buy a version of the game but it is much more exciting to play the game on the New York Times site on the internet.

7. Minesweeper

Minesweeper is an online game in that you must use reasoning to figure out the answer. If you click the wrong block, the bombs explode and you lose! Again, you are given clues to figure out the answer. It can be done but you must think about your choices.

Sokoban is a word that means warehouse keeper in Japanese. The objective of the game is to push boxes around trying to get them in their correct position. There are many variations of this game. However, you must reason out why the boxes will or will not fit. You can solve the game and must exercise your brain to do so. It is more exciting if you play online so give it a shot!

9. Checkers

Checkers is a simple and popular game. The rules and mechanics of the game are easy to understand and master. It can be played with two people and does not require any special skills. However, a player must use strategic thinking to win the game.

checkers games-for-the-elderly

10. Mahjong

Mahjong or mah-jongg is a game played with tiles that was developed in the 19th century in China. That just goes to show its popularity as it has been around for so long. Mahjong is a game of skill and strategy. And just like all other games for the elderly, luck!

The 144 tiles are mixed and each of the players (usually 4) chooses tiles to begin the game. Each player attempts to get a “legal hand” by discarding and choosing tiles. The first player to accomplish this wins. To make this game even more challenging the National Mah Jongg League distributes new cards with explanations of new “legal hands” each year!

mah jong games for the elderly

11. Card Games

There are so many games to be played with cards. You can find card games online or card games can be played in a social setting. Here are four games but there are so many more card games for the elderly.

cards games-for-the-elderly

Bridge is a classic card game that requires strategy and critical thinking. Playing bridge can help the elderly improve their memory and concentration skills, as well as their ability to analyze and make decisions.

It is a social game that can help seniors stay connected with others and prevent feelings of loneliness. However, it can also be played against online competitors.

Poker is a popular card game that requires a combination of luck and skill. Playing poker can help the elderly improve their analytical and strategic thinking, as well as improve their ability to read and interpret body language and facial expressions. Additionally, poker is a social game that can help seniors stay connected with others and build relationships.

Rummy is a fun and easy-to-learn card game that can be played with two or more players. This game requires players to think critically and strategically, as well as to remember the cards that have been played. Playing rummy can help the elderly improve their memory and concentration skills, as well as their ability to think creatively and make decisions.

Go Fish is a simple and enjoyable card game that can also be played with children or grandchildren. This game requires players to match cards and collect sets, which can help improve memory and concentration skills. Playing Go Fish can also be a fun way for seniors to bond with younger family members and stay connected with the younger generation.

Considerations When Choosing Games for the Elderly

Games that require social interaction are the best games for the elderly. However, games that can be played at home can be satisfying. The internet can be used to play games. Or, if you prefer to be able to hold the puzzle pieces in your hands, they can be ordered, and then play the old-fashioned way. We all remember the card table that stayed in the corner of the room for weeks as we slowly pieced together that jigsaw puzzle. We felt great satisfaction when the puzzle was completed.

Playing card games can be a great way for the elderly to stay mentally sharp and socially engaged. Some of the more popular card games are listed above. There are many more different types of card games that can be enjoyed by seniors of all ages and abilities.

By incorporating games into elderly care, we can improve the quality of life for seniors and promote their overall health and well-being. It takes time and patience to exercise your brain to solve the puzzles. However, the benefits provided will keep us all in good stead. Especially for the elderly.

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Fun Brain Games For Seniors To Keep Your Memory Sharp

Like any muscle, we have to regularly challenge our brains so it maintains its memory and cognitive functions. But, since we can’t go to the gym to exercise our brains, how can we engage our mind and maintain our overall mental well-being?

Brain games are a fun way to improve your problem-solving and memory skills. We’ve listed the best brain games for seniors you can play for yourself or with your elderly loved one to help keep the brain sharp.

Fun Brain Games For Seniors

Brain games for seniors are mental exercises that can help keep seniors’ brains actively engaged, a key component to maintaining overall mental health.

Brain games aren’t just a great way to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline – they are challenging and fun. It’s satisfying to achieve the goals you set for yourself, so seniors who play brain games are strengthening their mental well-being in a healthy, fulfilling way.

Exercising the mind can be easy thanks to brain games. Whether you enjoy social games or prefer to play brain games alone, here’s a list of the best brain games for seniors.

Bingo is a classic favorite amongst seniors, but it also has overlooked positive health benefits. Like the image shown above of a game at one of our sister communities, bingo is a great social activity and should be rewarding. It’s a low-maintenance, yet fun way for seniors to socialize. And socialization is important, especially for seniors. 

Social interaction reduces loneliness and increases your general well-being. That’s why, at Independence Village, we offer a variety of engaging social activities .

Bingo is also a simple way for seniors to engage three of the main senses: touch, hearing and sight . Engaging the senses means exercising your brain and increasing cognitive abilities and motor skills. Bingo may seem like a simple party game, but it is a great way to stimulate the senses and improve overall cognition.

Here are just a few of the positive health effects of bingo for seniors : 

  • Increased social engagement.
  • Improved cognitive functions and memory recall.
  • Better hand-eye coordination.

Puzzles are a fun way to train your mind and hone your hand-eye coordination, too. Jigsaw puzzles are a great solitary activity and assembling a jigsaw puzzle on your own can be extremely satisfying. Since challenging yourself is key to maintaining your overall mental health, people who do puzzles are strengthening their mental well-being and the self-confidence that comes with accomplishment.

It’s important to note that brain games like puzzles can slow the effects of dementia and improve cognitive health . Doing puzzles strengthens brain-cell connections and speeds up mental functioning. Besides the mental health benefits, doing a jigsaw puzzle is proven to lift your spirits. So, putting together a puzzle can offer mental stimulation as well as a serene, meditative break.

Shuffleboard

Shuffleboard is a relaxing game that can be played inside or outdoors. Strategizing in a game like shuffleboard improves dexterity and mental abilities. Since it engages both the body and mind, shuffleboard is a great game to stay physically and mentally active.

The Best Memory Games For Seniors

Finding the best memory game can be difficult. Brain games come in a variety of different formats, from classic word puzzles, identification games and more.

Whether it’s online or a classic card recall game, you have the power to pick the best format for you or your loved one to play brain games. To make it more engaging, try choosing a memory game that involves one of your other passions. For an avid birder, a bird identification game could be best for them.

Botanical Identification Games

Botanical identification games are memory games that can help you exercise your brain and while learning the names and attributes of different species of plants. It’s basically a memory card matching game. You have a card with a plant species on it, and see if you can identify the plant in the foliage around you. Botanical identification games are a great option for seniors with a passion for flowers or gardening.

Simply spending some time in the garden identifying botanicals can help you grow your vocabulary, make you more knowledgeable about plants, and boost your memory . Not to mention, being outdoors in nature can be beneficial for the mind and improve your mood.

Chess is a great brain game because it’s an engaging game that demands a lot of concentration and strategic thinking. Chess is especially helpful for boosting your memory because it activates more than one area of the brain.

Chess helps you develop pattern recognition, make decisions both visually and analytically, and test your memory. Seniors who want to stay sharp should consider chess to exercise logic and challenge the brain.

Word Association Games

Word games include games where seniors find hidden words, fill in missing words, build words and use descriptions or definitions to identify words. Word games are particularly important because they challenge your cognitive abilities and widen your vocabulary. Here are a few popular word association games to stimulate memory for seniors:

  • Crossword puzzles. There is research proving that struggling to put the right letters in those little boxes can help protect against dementia and improve your overall quality of thinking.
  • Scrabble . In this classic game, players earn points by constructing words through placing letter tiles on a grid. Playing the game requires logical thinking and strategizing about where to put each word on the board.
  • Boggle. Boggle promotes creative and critical thinking because players need to find words in sequences of adjacent letters. 
  • Upwords. The Upwords board game is a three-dimensional Scrabble-like game for two to four players. In Upwords, players can also stack letters on top of each other to make new words, making it an engaging memory recall game.

Community Brain Games For Seniors At Independence Village

At Independence Village, we integrate brain games into our events and activities. As residents had to spend more hours in their apartments during this past year, we integrated brain games into our community events to keep our residents active and happy.

As shown above, Independence Village Ankeny held an Olympics-themed event where residents could compete in cognition-strengthening brain games like bean bag baseball, ring toss and more. These Olympic events involved fun brain games so that our residents could stay active, sustain their mental well-being and feel accomplished.

In the full spirit of the Olympics, medals were awarded to the winners!

Events like this one are a chance for residents to connect with peers and the community. Good physical and emotional health can be a positive side effect of social interaction. At Independence Village, we strive to support our residents by engaging activities.

Related: Indoor Activities for Senior Residents

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10 Best Brain Games for Seniors

A senior man works on a jigsaw puzzle.

Keeping mentally active with various games is a good strategy for senior health. A number of studies and findings acknowledge that brain games can help maintain and even strengthen such areas as memory, reasoning and speed of processing, according to the National Institutes of Health . Other studies confirm that brain games for seniors can encourage independence , lower the risk of dementia and even prevent falls . 

Playing these games in groups also encourages social interaction, which can help stave off loneliness, another risk for seniors. So, what are the best brain games for seniors?

>> Read “ The Mental Health Benefits of Socializing for Seniors ”

Find out more about why brain and memory games for seniors bolster health and learn about some of the best brain games for senior citizens and older adults. 

6 Ways Brain Games Can Be Beneficial for Seniors

Stimulating the brain with games can help senior health in a variety of ways. Among the ways brain games help are:

  • Connecting with loved ones – Playing games with family or grandchildren can help seniors maintain a connection with them. Many games can be played online, enabling interaction with those who live far away.
  • Exercising the mind – Brain games stimulate different brain memory functions in seniors, such as executive function and processing speed.
  • Giving a feeling of control – Brain exercises can help seniors get and maintain a positive outlook. Learning and mastering a new game gives these seniors a sense of accomplishment.
  • Making new brain connections – Challenging your mind with new activities will, in theory, develop new connections in your brain, strengthening memory.
  • Preventing isolation – Playing games with others has the benefit of companionship. Seniors can join a chess club, have a card night with friends, or work on a jigsaw puzzle with a group. 
  • Sharpening thinking skills – Games can prevent age-related mental decline just like exercising prevents loss of bone strength and muscle. Brain games can re-engage the mind and improve thinking skills. 

The 10 Best Brain Games for Seniors

Bingo is a fun, social game offered at many Senior Lifestyle communities and some senior centers and libraries. It encourages social interaction and memory challenges. Bingo also offers health benefits from participation in the game’s activities, such as hearing when numbers are called out, sight when searching for numbers on the bingo card, and touch when using pieces, markers or daubers to mark the cards.

2. Checkers 

This is an easy-to-learn board game for seniors. This game is less about strategy and more about the process of logic and simple hand-eye coordination. Game sets are in many sizes, including ones with large boards and pieces, which can help seniors with arthritis or vision challenges.

Chess is a more complex game of strategy, beneficial for strengthening problem solving and reasoning. Chess can seem complicated at first, but the work is worth it because it can increase brain use and focus. Chess can be played in person or online with other players or alone.

4. Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles are everywhere, from daily newspapers to free online sites to books you can purchase at the grocery store or dollar store. These puzzles are a challenge either alone or sitting with a group, everyone helping each other out. If crosswords aren’t appealing, other free word games for seniors can be tried, such as word searches.

5. Jigsaw Puzzles 

Working on jigsaw puzzles is a wonderful way to fill the hours, either alone or with friends helping out. Jigsaw puzzles involve strategy and problem-solving skills, and they can grow in complexity depending on the number of pieces, the picture design or even the puzzle shape. They are also inexpensive, widely available in dollar stores.

6. Online Games

There are dozens of games available online for seniors. Memory games, skill games, word games and more are available in online versions. You can find word searches, jigsaw puzzles and more, many for free, and in multiplayer mode for a social version.

7. Scrabble 

This is a true classic board game for seniors and all ages. Scrabble can be entertaining while exercising memory, and can help build your vocabulary. Since it’s a game for at least two people, it is a social game, too.

8. Solitaire 

Solitaire and other card games help keep brains sharp. As one of the most popular card games, solitaire can be played in person or online. Other simple card games, which involve others, include bridge, gin rummy, go fish and hearts.

Sudoku puzzles challenge logic skills and mental abilities, which makes them perfect for seniors looking to stay sharp. Finishing a sudoku puzzle gives a senior a sense of accomplishment. There are many sudoku resources available, from inexpensive books to online sites to apps.

>> Read “ 5 Tips for Sudoku Beginners ”

10. Trivia Quizzes 

Trivia games, such as Trivial Pursuit, are a great stimulator of minds and memories. Played in teams, these games are fun and social, and can spark great conversations about shared experiences.

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10 Best Brain Games for Seniors that Improve Memory and Mental Health

Home » 10 Fun Games for Seniors

Old age is unfair. Not only do our bodies become older and less capable of the things they used to be able to do easily, but our minds can also diminish, too. However, remember that your brain is a muscle, too. And if you don’t use it, you lose it.

What are the best memory games for seniors?

Playing a memory game is a great and fun get into to brain training. The best thing about mind and memory games is that you can start them today to improve cognitive function. Here are the 10 free brain training games for seniors that will keep your aging brain sharp:

Rulers in 7th century India were onto something when they came up with the game of chess. This board game encourages the use of strategy (“Where can I move my pawn?”) and creative thinking (“Well, there’s an open spot…”).

Chess is one of the best board games that can improve you or your loved one’s brain health and cognitive skills. It is fairly accessible, even though many people think you have to be quite intelligent to play it. You can play on your computer. Even better, find a game at your local seniors’ centre or park, where you can get the added bonus of social interaction.

Graphic illustration of a woman playing chess on computer

2. Switch It Up

Here’s a completely free brain exercise for seniors: use your non-dominant hand to complete tasks you’d normally do with your dominant hand.

While it might sound like a recipe for disaster, using your non-dominant hand for everyday tasks such as brushing your teeth or eating builds new connections between your brain cells. Also, the more you use your non-dominant hand, the stronger it will get.

Graphic illustration of a senior man brushing teeth

3. Do You Remember…

Many people joke about losing their memory as they age. That doesn’t have to be the case, though. Here’s another free brain exercise for older adults against memory loss: Test Your Memory.

What’s the best way to test your memory skills? Make a list – it could be anything, like your grocery list, or the next ten books you want to read – and then memorize it. An hour later, see how many items on the list you can recall. The more challenging the list, the greater the brain workout.

Graphic illustration of an older man thinking

4. Jigsaw Puzzles

If you’re looking for a fun and classic brain game for seniors, you might already have a bunch of jigsaw puzzles lying around. And if you don’t, you can buy them quite inexpensively at your local dollar store.

Jigsaw puzzles are a great mental exercises. They involve strategy (“Let’s find all of the edge pieces first”) and problem-solving skills (“This piece goes there”). Also, you can find jigsaw puzzles of varying levels of complexity, from a few dozen pieces to several hundred.

Graphic illustration of a senior man doing a jigsaw puzzle

5. Make Some Beautiful Music

Have you always been told that you’ve got a great ear for music? Join a choir or take up a new musical instrument as a great cognitive training.

Learning something that’s new as well as complex engages and keeps your brain active, which is good for cognitive health. Playing an instrument is also a physical activity requiring dexterity. Here’s an added benefit: if you join a choir or take lessons with more than one person, you make new friends.

Graphic illustration of an older man playing guitar

6. Pick up a Book

This can be an activity that can be a free brain exercise for seniors, if you go to your local library or borrow books from your friends. Just remember to give them back afterwards.

Reading is an excellent activity for boosting your brainpower. It’s a mentally stimulating activity, and studies have shown that when you stimulate your brain, you slow cognitive decline. Research hasn’t specified exactly what kinds of books you should read to get the greatest cerebral stimulation, so read whatever type of book you like most, be it romance, sci-fi, or non-fiction.

Graphic illustration of a woman reading a book in a rocking chair

7. Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles can also be free, if you find them online or if you’re already subscribing to a newspaper with a crossword puzzle. The New York Time’s version is probably the most famous.

These puzzles are great word games for seniors; they challenge people to think of a word that fits into a certain number of boxes and makes sense in the context of the rest of the puzzle. And doing a crossword puzzle can become a social experience when you ask friends or family members for help.

Graphic illustration of an older person doing a crossword puzzle

You might be more of a numbers person than a wordsmith. That’s okay – Sudoku is just the game for you.

If you’re not familiar with Sudoku, it’s a number puzzle that originated in Japan. There’s a box with numbers and several blank spaces. Judging by the numbers that are already there, you have to fill in the blanks.

As with crosswords, Sudoku can be a free activity. Many newspapers feature a daily Sudoku puzzle. You can also buy Sudoku puzzle books. Sudoku puzzles come in several levels of difficulty, so you can challenge yourself as much or as little as you like.

Related: Video games for seniors and mental health

Graphic illustration of sudoku

9. Count Backwards

You don’t have to be good at math to play this game for seniors. All you need to do is know how to count, and you have to be able to perform basic subtraction.

Try counting backward from 200, and subtract five from every number (“200, 195, 190…”). Then, try counting backward from 150, subtracting seven each time (“150, 143, 136…”). Next, count backward from 100, but this time, subtract three from each number (“100, 97, 94..”).

Graphic illustration of an woman thinking

10. Get Some Exercise

Combine mental and physical exercise by doing some simple workouts. You don’t have to get very sweaty, and some of these activities are free (the ones that aren’t are low-cost).

Getting some exercise not only improves your physical fitness but also provides mental health benefits. Walking protects your brain against dementia, while Tai Chi sharpens your mental focus. Yoga makes you feel centered, and jogging boosts your memory. You can do all of these alone, though you’ll enjoy doing these activities either in a class or in a group.

Graphic illustration of woman exercising with dumbbells

Cognitive decline doesn’t have to be part of old age. Doing brain exercises and brain games for seniors (many of which are free or very affordable) staves off the loss of memory and boosts your mental acuity. And the earlier you start, the sooner the benefit.

Related: 13 Fun Activities for Seniors Around Their Hometown (While Keeping The Mind Active)

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COMMENTS

  1. Games for Seniors to Boost Fun and Interaction">10 Engaging Games for Seniors to Boost Fun and Interaction

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  2. Games For Seniors: 33 Of Our Favorite Options - StoryPoint Senior Living">Games For Seniors: 33 Of Our Favorite Options - StoryPoint Senior...

    For seniors, including these games in your routine might help delay or prevent memory-related conditions. To keep your mind sharp and your spirits high, we’ve put together a list of 33 fun and enriching games for seniors, divided into ten easy-to-navigate categories.

  3. Games for Seniors - SeniorResource">11 Most Stimulating Brain Games for Seniors - SeniorResource

    Jul 12, 2024 · Whether it be just to curb boredom, learn something new, or stay mentally fit, games can help improve our everyday lives, keep us sharp, and improve our problem-solving skills. While forgetfulness can be a natural part of aging, using these types of brain games can slow down the process.

  4. Games for Seniors to Stay Sharp | OasisSpace">14 Best Brain Games for Seniors to Stay Sharp | OasisSpace

    Brain games are a scientifically endorsed way for seniors to enhance memory and cognitive functions. In this article, we will explore various entertaining games that promise both fun and mental agility, setting the stage for a cognitively rich retirement.

  5. Fun Brain Games For Seniors and Adults [Free to Paid]">31 Best Fun Brain Games For Seniors and Adults [Free to Paid]

    May 22, 2020 · 31 Fun Brain Games for Seniors ( Free to Paid) is the complete guide to fun activiites to boost your brain powers and to help people thrive at home (where ever that may be). This isn’t another sudoku list instead an ultimate guide combining fun games with brain booster potential.

  6. Games for Seniors: 9 Activities to Enhance Cognitive ...">Memory-Boosting Games for Seniors: 9 Activities to Enhance...

    Jun 29, 2023 · These games target various cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, recall, logical thinking, problem-solving, and language skills. Let’s explore 9 memory-boosting games designed specifically for seniors.

  7. Games for the Elderly - Guide for Seniors">11 Best Mental Games for the Elderly - Guide for Seniors

    May 17, 2023 · 11 Best Mental Games for Seniors. These games can help improve cognitive function and memory. Here are some of the best mental games for the elderly: 1. Bingo. Bingo is a classic game that can be played by seniors of all ages. It involves marking off numbers on a card as they are called out. Bingo can help improve memory and cognitive function.

  8. Games For Seniors: Fun Ways To Sharpen Your Memory">Brain Games For Seniors: Fun Ways To Sharpen Your Memory

    Brain games are a fun way to improve your problem-solving and memory skills. We’ve listed the best brain games for seniors you can play for yourself or with your elderly loved one to help keep the brain sharp.

  9. Games for Seniors - Senior Lifestyle">10 Best Brain Games for Seniors - Senior Lifestyle

    Keeping mentally active with various games is a good strategy for senior health. A number of studies and findings acknowledge that brain games can help maintain and even strengthen such areas as memory, reasoning and speed of processing, according to the National Institutes of Health.

  10. Games & Memory Exercises for Seniors - Lifeline">10 Free Brain Games & Memory Exercises for Seniors - Lifeline

    Playing a memory game is a great and fun get into to brain training. The best thing about mind and memory games is that you can start them today to improve cognitive function. Here are the 10 free brain training games for seniors that will keep your aging brain sharp: 1. Chess.