Sharp As a Tack: Brain and Memory Games for Seniors

Brain and memory games for seniors are a great way to help with memory retention and mental function, especially as our loved ones age. Here are some ideas for brain games that caregivers and family members can play with their senior loved ones.

After you try one or all of these fun brain games for seniors, tell us on social media: What is YOUR favorite game or memory puzzle? 

Why Play Fun Brain Games? 

Researchers have found that playing games can keep the mind sharp and alert. While playing games isn’t going to prevent the normal aging process, it can help keep us healthy and mentally stimulated.

When physical activity levels decline, intellectual activity is still possible. That’s why seniors, in particular, should make it a habit to play games. 

What Brain Games Should Seniors Play? 

Games that challenge the memory and/or require logic are especially helpful. We’re also going to list some solo activities, below, but keep in mind that games that involve multiple players have the added benefit of socialization.

1.) Multiplayer Memory Games for Seniors

Make game night a regular activity! Thousands of games are available in stores or online, but we’ve listed some of the most popular games that seniors might enjoy below: 

• Bridge 
• Go Fish
• Gin Rummy
• Checkers
• Chinese Checkers
• Mahjong
• Backgammon
• Dominos
• BINGO
• Chess
• Scrabble
• Life
• Risk
• Pictionary
• Trivial Pursuit
• Clue
• Monopoly
• Scrabble
• Jigsaw puzzles

2.) Solo Memory Games for Seniors

Taking some solo time to relax is important. Brain puzzles like the examples listed below can help increase memory, sharpen reasoning, and expand creative thinking. Seniors can enjoy these games to sharpen their attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and memory retention:

• Solitaire 
• Crossword puzzles
• Sodoku
• Word searches
• Brain teasers
• Word games
• Jigsaw puzzles
• Lumosity (online subscription)

Check out these Amazon books for more fun brain games for seniors.  

Final Tips

The brain wasn’t built in a day—so make brain games and teasers part of everyday life. Schedule a regular get-together with friends or family to play games. Solo games can be played every day during morning coffee or while enjoying some time on the porch. 

Look for a variety of activities, too. Perhaps a combination of a weekly get-together, morning brain teasers, and leisure time jigsaw puzzles would be a great routine!

If you’re looking for more ways to support a loved one’s goal of aging in place, give the experts at Best Care a call. We’re here to help!