WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR GAMES FOR SENIORS?

Staying active physically is a lifestyle tip older adults hear on almost a daily basis. However, maintaining vigorous mental health is just as important of a tip. According to the National Institute of Health, playing games can be as mentally stimulating as reading a good book or spending time at a cultural attraction such as an art museum. What researchers have discovered is certain games called “brain games” help older adults bolster memory skills, which is an effective strategy to prevent the development of dementia symptoms.

As our assisted living facility in Rio Rancho, caregivers understand how brain games can enhance memory skills. They help older adults connect with loved ones, as well as give them a feeling of being in control. Stimulating games helps the brain make new neurotransmitter connections to keep seniors alert. Another benefit of games for seniors is that they help prevent the feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Let’s review the most popular games for seniors.

Bingo

Bingo is one of the most popular games at our senior housing center in Rio Ranch, New Mexico. It does a great job of encouraging social interactions, while at the same time helping older adults overcome memory challenges. The mental health benefits of bingo stem from remembering the numbers called out, as well as searching for the numbers called out on playing cards.

Checkers

Checkers is considered one of the easiest board games for older adults to learn. The game is not as much about developing a winning strategy as it is about processing logic and improving hand-eye coordination. Checkerboards come in a wide variety of sizes to accommodate older adults who live with arthritis and/or vision challenges.

Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles are popular at our assisted living facility in Rio Rancho for several reasons. First, crossword puzzles are easy to access, whether you find one in a newspaper or when you go online. Second, you do not have to recruit a playing partner, although you can work on a crossword puzzle with a fellow resident. Third, crossword puzzles test memory skills and help you develop strategies.

Card Games

Card games represent ideal brain sharpening tools, from playing solitaire alone to engaging with friends in a game of hearts. The best part is you can play these games in person or find a competitive card game online. Card games develop memory skills, as well as improve an older adult’s math skills. Many of our residents play card games in the community activities room in both formal and informal environments.

Trivia

A board game such as Trivia Pursuit is an effective way to stimulate the brain, as well as improve memory skills. Trivia games require players to dig deep in the mind to pull out what were considered once-forgotten facts. Playing a board game allows you to interact with other residents, but there are also plenty of online trivia games that initiate action in the brain.

Stay Mentally Active by Playing Brain Games

The memory program at our assisted living facility in Rio Rancho emphasizes the importance of staying mentally active. Playing games is the foundation of the plan to keep residents engaged with one another to bolster memory skills. We invite you to take a tour of the MorningStar of Rio Rancho assisted living facility to learn more about how our caregivers keep residents mentally sharp.