Games That Will Keep You Sharp and Active as You Age
As more and more seniors are opting for assisted living facilities, these facilities are coming to be a very safe and comfortable places for seniors with all the necessary are required assistance. There are many different types of games that can be enjoyed by residents of these facilities, providing them with plenty of entertainment. Some common games that are offered include card games, board games, video games, and puzzles.
There are many games that can be appreciated by seniors living in assisted living facilities. These games can help keep the dynamic and drew in, and may assist with further developing their socialization abilities.
Board Games for Seniors
1. Scrabble
Researchers at the University of Waterloo studied how Scrabble games affect the cognitive abilities of seniors living in assisted living facilities. The study found that playing Scrabble can improve mental flexibility, vocabulary, concentration skills and problem-solving skills in older adults.
The researchers believe that these cognitive benefits may help seniors stay mentally sharp and delay the onset of dementia. Residents of assisted living facilities often enjoy playing Scrabble games together as a form of recreation and socialization. The complex vocabulary and strategic thinking involved in the game can provide a stimulating mental challenge for seniors. In addition, the competitive nature of the game can help to boost residents' morale and self-esteem.
2. Chess
Chess is an ancient game that is loved by all generations. Chess is a board game that has pieces representing different kinds of troops, and the object is to capture the opponent's king.
For seniors who live in assisted living facilities, chess can provide a fun way to pass the time and stay mentally active. There are many different variations of chess, so even if someone has played before, they can still learn new strategies. In addition to providing a mental challenge, chess also helps improve hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills.
3. Monopoly
One of the most popular board games in the world is Monopoly. This game can very fun for seniors. There are a few different versions of Monopoly that are designed specifically for seniors.
These versions are typically easier to play and include simpler rules. One such version is called Senior Monopoly. This game is played on a large board that is designed for two to four players.
The game includes a deck of cards, as well as special tokens that represent different items from a retirement home. Players move around the board, buying and selling properties, and collecting rent from their opponents. The goal is to bankrupt the other players and become the ultimate winner.
Card Games for Seniors
1. Crazy Eights
Crazy Eights is a game for seniors that helps them to have fun and spend time in the assisted living facilities. The game is played with a regular deck of 52 cards, and the objective is to get rid of all of your cards.
Players are dealt five cards each, and the player with the highest card begins the game. On your turn you must play a single card onto the discard pile that matches either the rank or suit of the top card.
The only exception to this is an 8. 8’s are wild and can be played on anything. When you play an eight, pick a suit. The next card played must either match the picked suit or be another 8. If you are unable to play, then you must draw cards from the draw deck until you can play or once you have drawn 5 cards, whichever comes.
2. Rummy
Rummy is a classic ancient game loved by adults and seniors. Each player gets seven cards. Turn the top card face-up to form the discard pile, then use the rest of the deck as a stockpile.
Each player will draw from either the face-down stockpile or the face-up discard pile in a clockwise rotation. Each player must discard a card after picking up a new one. Using the cards in their hand, each player must make sets or runs.
A set in the game is made when there is a collection of three or more identical cards. A run is a three-card or more continuous sequence of the same suit.
3. Uno
Seniors can have fun playing uno, which is a card game that is easy to learn. When it's your turn, be the first player to get rid of all your cards by matching them one by one to the upturned color or number cards on top of the deck.
If you cannot play a card, you must draw one from the deck. The first player to lose all their cards wins the game.
Online Solo Games for Seniors
1. Candy Crush
2. Tetris
3. Dots: A Game About Connecting
Group Games at Assisted Living
Group games are useful for seniors living in assisted living facilities. Senior citizens who are looking for a way to keep their minds active and their bodies active should consider participating in Group games.
These games offer seniors something to look forward to each day and can help keep them mentally and physically healthy. They provide a social outlet, improve communication skills, and provide opportunities for exercise. Group games also stimulate the brain, which can improve cognitive function. Here are some of the most popular group’s games for seniors:
1. Quiz Show
This event is a quiz show designed for elders residing in assisted living facilities. The quiz will test their knowledge on a variety of topics, from current events to history. The event is meant to be fun and engaging, as well as a way to stimulate the minds of the elders.
2. Memory Game
A memory game is a type of game in which players are challenged to remember a certain order of objects or cards. The goal is to be able to repeat the sequence back correctly after a period of time has passed. Memory games are often used as tools for improving memory, focus, and concentration.
3. Scavenger Hunt
The assisted living facilities arrange scavenger hunt for their residents. These hunts can have different themes like nature scavenger hunt, photo scavenger hunt, reading scavenger hunt, Halloween scavenger hunt, Christmas scavenger hunt. Scavenger hunts are especially beneficial for those with dementia, as they can help to improve memory and recall skills.
4. Tambola
Tambola is a game of chance played with numbered cards. Players mark off numbers on their cards as the caller calls them out. The first player to mark off all of their numbers wins the game. The game can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and is a great way to socialize and have fun.