Lifestyle Gaming for Seniors 7/26/2024 | By Kari Smith Why not have fun and stay mentally fit, too? Gaming for seniors, through video chat platforms like Zoom, computer games, and traditional video gaming platforms, can provide a wealth of benefits. Games can stimulate the brain, help maintain cognitive function, reduce the risk of dementia, and offer a fun way to connect with friends and family. Here, we highlight some top games for each platform, mixing multiplayer and solo options. Gaming for seniors on Zoom and other video platforms The following games can be played in person, but they can easily be played on Zoom or other video platforms to stay connected with loved ones at a distance. Most are also appropriate for people with mobility challenges. These classics are all played best as multiplayer games and are perfect for friend peer groups or multiple family members. Two Truths and A Lie In this simple icebreaker game, each player takes turns making three statements about themselves – two truths and one lie. The others guess which statement is the lie. This game is a great way to learn interesting facts about friends and family while sharing laughs. Charades Split into teams and take turns acting out words, phrases, or titles, all without speaking. The opposing team guesses. Charades can be themed around holidays or specific topics for added fun. Five Things The leader gives a topic, and the chosen person must name five related items within 15 seconds. Topics can vary in difficulty, making this game adaptable for different skill levels. For example, for the topic of “animals,” one might list elephant, lion, dog, cat, and goat. To make it more difficult (or to tailor it to different age groups), narrow the subject to marine animals, or further narrow the subject to animals whose names start with a particular letter. Pictionary Using Zoom’s whiteboard feature, players draw while their team guesses the word. An online random word generator can provide the words, and a timer keeps the game moving. Scattergories Roll a virtual die, or have one player choose a letter. Then choose multiple categories in which you think of words starting with that letter. For example, using the letter B and the categories Animals, Cars, Musicians and Bands, Dog Breeds, and Things in a Wallet, entries could be bear, Buick, Beatles, Bichon Frise, and bills. This game is easily played over Zoom with pencil and paper, or utilizing computer word processing software. Scavenger Hunt A classic scavenger hunt is a fun and active way to engage participants. The leader reads a list of items for players to find around their homes. Whoever returns to the screen first with the correct item wins a point. This game can be themed to match holidays or special occasions. Computer options for gaming for seniors Computer games can typically be played on a desktop computer, a laptop, a tablet, or on most smart phones. Multiple players can connect to the same game simultaneously. Words with Friends Words with Friends allows players to compete against friends or play solo. It’s great for keeping the mind sharp and expanding vocabulary. Solitaire This version of Solitaire is designed for seniors, with large, easy-to-read cards and no distracting ads. It’s a perfect solo game for a bit of relaxing fun. Chess Chess.com offers free online chess, allowing seniors to challenge friends or improve their skills by playing against the computer. It’s excellent for strategic thinking and mental exercise. UNO The digital version of the classic card game UNO can be played with friends and family online, making it a fun and familiar way to connect. Candy Crush Saga Th tile-matching game Candy Crush Saga is easy to learn but challenging to master. It helps improve problem-solving skills and provides a fun way to pass the time. The game can be played at any pace, making it ideal for quick sessions or longer playtimes. Jigsaw puzzles Online platforms like JigsawExplorer offer multiplayer jigsaw puzzles, allowing seniors to enjoy the classic pastime virtually with friends or family. Related: The Benefits of Play for Seniors Video gaming platforms Animal Crossing In Animal Crossing, available on Nintendo or Nintendo Switch, players build and manage their own virtual island, interacting with animal villagers. It’s a relaxing game that promotes creativity and social interaction, ideal for those who enjoy a slower pace. Nintendo Wii The Wii’s motion-sensing technology makes it a great option for physical activity. Games like Wii Sports offer tennis, golf, and bowling, providing light exercise and fun. Just Dance is a Wii favorite that encourages physical activity with fun dance routines to popular music. It’s a fantastic way to exercise and have fun at the same time. Money saving tip: look for older editions of games, which will be much cheaper than the latest version. Minecraft Known for its creative and building aspects, Minecraft can be enjoyed by seniors who like strategy and design. It’s also a wonderful way to bond with younger family members who play. Minecraft is popularly played on X-box, but can also be played on most phones, tablets, or computers. Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day! The Brain Age games, available for the Nintendo DS, offers a variety of puzzles and exercises designed to improve cognitive functions. It’s specifically tailored to keep the brain sharp, making it a great choice for mental fitness. Tetris Tetris is a classic puzzle game that involves fitting falling blocks into complete lines. It’s excellent for improving spatial reasoning and hand-eye coordination. The game’s simple yet challenging mechanics make it suitable for all ages. There are also many online versions of Tetris, if one does not have access to a Nintendo. Whether through Zoom, computer games, or traditional video gaming platforms, virtual gaming for seniors can help them stay mentally sharp, socially connected, and physically active. These activities offer not only entertainment but also significant cognitive and emotional benefits, making them a valuable addition to any senior’s routine. Read More Kari Smith Kari Smith is a frequent contributor to Seniors Guide, helping to keep those in the senior industry informed and up-to-date. She's a Virginia native whose love of writing began as a songwriter recording her own music. In addition to teaching music and performing in the Richmond area, Kari also enjoys riding horses and farming.