The Best Brain-Boosting Games for Seniors

Age is just a number—you’re never too old to enjoy the fun and benefits of brain games! Whether you’re aiming to sharpen memory, improve cognitive function, or just have a bit of fun, brain games are an excellent choice. These activities are not only enjoyable but also provide a wealth of benefits that can enhance your mental and overall well-being.
In this post, we’ll explore the best brain games for seniors, their benefits, and how you can get started on your journey to a sharper mind.

What Are the Best Brain Games for Seniors?

According to the National Library of Medicine, studies show that games for older adults “have the potential to improve verbal, nonverbal, and working memory in older adults with cognitive impairment.” When it comes to brain games for seniors, there are countless options designed to challenge various aspects of cognitive function. Why not sharpen your skills and beat your friends in a fun and challenging game! Whether you’re looking to improve memory, sharpen problem-solving skills, or boost attention, there’s a game for every need. Here are some of the best games for seniors, broken down by type:

Memory Games and Puzzles

Memory games are games that sharpen the mind and help your brain stay active. These types of games are excellent for strengthening recall and recognition. Here are some examples of games to help improve long and short-term memory:

• Memory Matching Games: Games that involve matching pairs that are identical with one another.
• Jigsaw Puzzles: Puzzles that require a lot of attention and focus in order to create an image.
• Simon Says: A game that involves listening to someone tell people to do things in a rapid fire way.

If your loved one has dementia, these games can help them improve their memory. These activities help seniors remember everyday tasks, like appointments or names, which is key to maintaining cognitive function. According to the American Medical Association journal JAMA Network Open, a study showed that playing memory games can reduce the risk of dementia of people over the age of 70 by 11%. Playing these games can help strengthen your mind and health!

Word and Number Games

Feeling like you want a challenge? For seniors who love a good challenge, word and number games are perfect for improving attention to detail, logic, and critical thinking. Each game involves competing in forming, thinking of, or guessing words or numbers according to a set of rules. Here are some games that require a level of concentration and problem-solving skills:

• Sudoku: A puzzle in which missing numbers are to be filled into a 9 by 9 grid of squares which are subdivided into 3 by 3 boxes so that every row, every column, and every box contains the numbers 1 through 9.
• Crossword Puzzles: Puzzles in which words that are the answers to clues are written into a pattern of numbered squares that go across and down.

A study at the University of Exeter shows that elders who regularly take part in word and number games have sharper braids. These mind stimulating games can be played online, offline or in-person, and they are especially effective at improving focus and reasoning skills.

Visual and Spatial Awareness Games

Games that test visual and spatial awareness are ideal for seniors who want to improve hand-eye coordination and spatial reasoning. Visual and spatial awareness games help enhance visual perception. Want to lose stress? Play some chess! Chess not only involves planning strategies and thinking multiple steps ahead, but also helps the mind focus on one thing at a time. There are plenty of other games that are great for enhancing overall mental flexibility, including:

• “I Spy” Games: Games where someone goes “I spy with my little eye something…” and players have to guess what they spotted.
• Spot the Difference Games: Games where you have to look at two images and spot any difference.
• Matching Games: Games where you have to find pairs of any items.

Card and Board Games

Pick a card – any card! If you want to boost memory and focus, traditional card games are right up your alley. Some good card games for seniors include:

• Solitaire: A card game for one player where the goal is to arrange cards in a specific pattern or sequence.
• Go Fish: A card game where a player has to collect set of four matching cards asking for cards from their opponent.
• Rummy: Any of several card games for two or more players in which each player tries to assemble groups of three or more cards of the same rank or of consecutive sequence in the same suit and to be the first to meld them all.

These games are a great way for boosting memory and focus. An NIH study showed that card games are an effective way to improve attention, short-term memory, and logical reasoning capability in older adults. Board games like Monopoly or Scrabble offer an additional social element, which is perfect for seniors who want to interact with family and friends. Playing these games regularly can help improve memory, critical thinking, and problem-solving, while also providing enjoyable social opportunities. Why not get some friends together and show off your skills in a game of Monopoly!

Online Games and Apps

If you enjoy playing on your mobile device, there are countless apps and online games tailored to seniors. Platforms like Lumosity or BrainBashers offer a variety of interactive brain challenges. You can also play games like Words with Friends or Scrabble with others, making these digital options a great way to stay connected while also boosting your cognitive health. These online games are accessible anytime, anywhere, allowing seniors to connect with family and friends near or far!

Choosing the Right Game

With so many games available, how do you know which one is the right fit? Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:

• Consider Your Interests: If you prefer independent activities, card games like Solitaire or memory challenges might be more your speed. If you like a social environment, Monopoly or chess could be better options.
• Assess the Difficulty Level: Choose games that match your cognitive abilities. Start with simpler games and gradually progress to more challenging ones to keep things fun and engaging.
• Align with Cognitive Goals: If you want to improve memory, opt for games that require recall. If problem-solving is your focus, look for strategy games like chess or Scrabble.

Ultimately, the best brain game is one that keeps you mentally engaged and aligns with your personal goals.

How to Get Started

Getting started is simple! Here are a few ways to dive into the world of brain-boosting activities:

• Online Platforms & Apps: Online platforms like Lumosity, BrainBashers, and mobile apps for games like Words with Friends are great places to start. They offer a variety of puzzles, games, and memory challenges suited for all skill levels.
• Local Community Groups: Many senior living communities and local senior centers offer group activities that focus on cognitive health, including card games, board games, and memory challenges.
• Tabletop Games: If you prefer offline activities, card games, board games, and puzzles are perfect options that don’t require technology.

Start Playing at The Ridge

A recent poker game at The Ridge Cottonwood brought residents together for some friendly competition, while keeping their minds sharp. Cristi Gulbransen, The Ridge Cottonwood’s Community Life Director, shared, “They’re using their brain in ways they don’t always use their brain, so it’s so important.” Many of The Ridge residents play poker weekly, putting to use their memory and strategic thinking skills. Games like poker — and other mentally stimulating activities — have a multitude of benefits that combat cognitive conditions like Alzheimer’s, making them a valuable part of our wellness approach.

At The Ridge, we also support life-long learning by hosting TED Talks, where residents engage with thought-provoking topics and participate in stimulating discussions. These events encourage curiosity, life-long learning, and social interaction, all of which contribute to holistic cognitive health.

Our communities offer a wide range of recreational activities that support cognitive health, foster social connections, and enhance overall quality of life. Whether you prefer traditional board games or exploring new brain-boosting apps, we’ve got something for everyone. Discover more about our exceptional senior living communities: The Ridge Foothill, The Ridge Cottonwood, and The Ridge Pinehurst.