A key concern for our elderly loved ones is the age-associated decline in cognitive functions as they age. This can manifest in a variety of ways like forgetfulness. To help your loved ones keep their brain active and healthy, free online games present an easily accessible and affordable solution. With their interactive puzzles and challenges, playing online games with your elderly loved one can be a crucial contributor to aging well!
Mahjong
A popular game in Asian countries, mahjong is a tile-matching game that combines pattern recognition with strategy. An important aspect is that it’s played in groups of four. This provides opportunities for socialization which is important for alleviating loneliness. Loneliness is a common problem among seniors, especially for those who live alone.
Other than being a social game, playing Mahjong can also boost brain health and prevent the onset of depression. With up to ten variations available online, an endless variety of spin-offs exist to make sure that you and your elderly loved ones never get bored!
Scrabble
Scrabble is a game that you’ve likely played as a child. It is perfect for seniors who love reading. Actively recalling words from their memory, as well as the strategizing required to maximize the points they can earn, will give their brain a good workout. Calculating and tracking scores can encourage your loved ones to use arithmetic and mental sums too. With its simple rules and widespread popularity, it is also a game that is easy to pick up from scratch.
Chess
Another classic game, chess is a traditional game renowned for its emphasis on strategy and mental prowess. The basic rules remain the same, but the game can be altered to include parameters like time limits to give it a fresh and exciting spin. Importantly, it builds short-term and long-term memory as seniors employ critical thinking to analyze the game. Chess is a fun and engaging activity that can complement other forms of memory care activities designed for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The best part? Online chess games allow you to play with your elderly loved ones from anywhere in the world.
Charades
Charades is a classic guessing game that requires participants to guess a word based on another person’s acted-out actions. While traditionally played at family gatherings, you can also easily play this game over a video call. All you need is a webcam, internet connection, and a willingness to let loose! The need to act out different actions can get your loved ones to move and be physically active, which is good for their physical health.
Checkers
Checkers can be played online as well. With uniform pieces, this game requires less strategy than other board games like chess. As such, this makes the game more accessible for seniors who may not be familiar with board games. Checkers require seniors to predict and plan around their opponents. This is the perfect activity to help your elderly loved ones exercise their brains without being put off by complex rules.
As our loved ones age, it may become more difficult for them to concentrate and focus for long periods. However, playing games are an engaging way for you to interact with them and stimulate their brains. Next time you want to meet your elderly loved ones virtually, consider playing a game with them as well!
