By the time you turn 65, it’s normal for your reflexes and reaction speed to slow down. Whether you’re thinking about it or not, this natural aging process makes it harder for you to keep up with younger players. While some seniors can and do continue to play competitive games, these are a few of the best activities for older adults. Not only will these activities help you stay fit, healthy, and active, but they’ll also help you build your social network and continue to get to know new people as you get older.
There are many different games that you can play with different equipment that won’t break the bank. Whether you want to stay active on a recreational basis, you need a hobby or you just want to keep up with friends, games and sports are a fun and rewarding way to stay healthy, fit, and active. Check out this list of games for seniors to play and enjoy.
#1 – Solitaire
Solitaire games help seniors build their self-confidence. Apart from bringing a lot of fun, this game can be really challenging. With only one card to deal out and one card to draw, the aim of the game is to ensure you don’t lose the best card for your hand. For senior residents with Alzheimer’s disease, there’s an old-fashioned, family-friendly solitaire card game that can have big rewards in the form of improved cognitive function. The game is called Canasta, and it’s part of a new line of games for caregivers that Dr. Steven G. DeKosky and his team at Emory University’s School of Medicine in Atlanta are creating in collaboration with a commercial game developer.
#2 – Golf
While the sport of golf can take a lot of practice, this is still one of the best sports for the elderly. Playing sports games is an exercise that keeps you fit and active and is a great way to spend time with family and friends. Golf is a game that you can play on your own if you choose, but it’s also a game that can be played competitively, allowing you to socialize with friends and play against other golfers.
#3 – Frisbee
This is a fun sport that’s not as physical as other sports like basketball and volleyball. Instead, the object of this game is to catch a Frisbee by throwing it into the air. Playing the game is like tossing a piece of paper in the air and catching it. Because of the sport’s difficulty, it’s a game that seniors can play with their friends and family, allowing them to spend time together and get out of the house. Frisbee can also improve your hand-eye coordination, which can help you in the workplace.
