Joy, entertainment, and engagement—it’s something that every senior should have access to. Life in retirement should be rewarding and full of new opportunities. So for seniors who enjoy games like Wordle and Connections, what are some new fun ideas?
- Wordle
- Connections
- Sudoku
- Crossword puzzles
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Mahjong
- Bingo
- Scrabble
- Chess
Wordle
Wordle is a simple yet addictive word puzzle game. Every day, players have six chances to guess a five-letter word. The game tells you which letters are correct and if they’re in the right spot. It’s a great way to keep the mind active and engaged.
Seniors can easily access Wordle through The New York Times website. However, many websites offer free versions of the game and alternatives with different rules. It’s a convenient way to enjoy some mental exercise from the comfort of home.
Connections
Connections is another game from The New York Times. It challenges players to link words together based on shared themes. It’s a great way to stretch your mind and improve language skills, and it can be surprisingly satisfying.
You can find Connections online on various game websites. There are paid and free options with alternate rules. It’s perfect for seniors looking to engage their minds in a fun way.
Sudoku
Sudoku is a classic number puzzle game that’s been around for years. The goal is simple—players fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so each column, row, and 3×3 section contains the digits from 1-9.
It’s a fantastic game for improving concentration and logical thinking. You can easily find Sodoku online, with plenty of themes and variations. Many newspapers also include a daily Sudoku puzzle, so seniors can enjoy it in print or online. It’s a versatile game that can be enjoyed anywhere.
Crossword Puzzles
Crossword puzzles are a wonderful way to boost vocabulary and pass the time. They involve filling in a grid based on clues provided for each word. It’s a game that’s both challenging and rewarding.
Seniors can find crossword puzzles in newspapers, books, and online. However, they’re more accessible than ever—there are plenty of free versions online that can be done on a phone or computer. Crosswords are perfect for those who love words and enjoy a good challenge.
Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles offer a relaxing way to spend an afternoon. The goal is to fit pieces together to form a complete picture. It’s a great way to improve spatial awareness and patience. Meanwhile, the sense of accomplishment can’t be overstated.
Many websites offer free online jigsaw puzzles, which can be a different experience from the physical ones. There are also cell phone apps with plenty of options. Seniors can choose the difficulty level and enjoy the calming process of completing a picture piece by piece.
Mahjong
Mahjong is a tile-matching game based on the traditional Chinese game. The objective is to remove all tiles from the board by matching identical pairs. It’s a game that requires strategy and concentration, and it can be extremely satisfying to clear the board.
Mahjong is easily accessible online. The game’s digital format makes it easy to play without needing a physical set. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a strategic challenge, and enjoy the feeling of successfully completing a complicated puzzle.
Bingo
Bingo is a popular game that combines luck and social interaction. Players mark off numbers on their cards as they’re called out, aiming to complete a line or full house. It’s a game that’s easy to learn and fun to play with friends.
Bingo can be played almost anywhere. It has a slower pace, making it enjoyable for those who want to spend an afternoon playing a fun game.
Scrabble
Scrabble is a classic word game. The goal is to create words on a board using letter tiles to score points. It’s a great way to enhance vocabulary and strategic thinking. For older adults who enjoy language-based challenges, Scrabble can be extremely enjoyable.
Seniors can play Scrabble online or with a physical board. Many websites offer free versions of the game, allowing players to compete against others or practice solo. It’s a fun and educational game for all ages.
Chess
Chess is one of the best strategic challenges. Each player controls an army of pieces to checkmate the opponent’s king. It’s a game that requires foresight and careful planning.
There are many free online platforms to play chess, offering both beginner tutorials and advanced challenges. Seniors can learn and play at their own pace, making it a perfect game for developing strategic skills.
Engagement and Enjoyment Every Day
These fun games can offer seniors countless moments of joy. They’re stimulating, engaging, and most of all, enjoyable. Here at Summer Village Senior Living, we’re always encouraging residents to try new things and find joy every day. We’re here to help them live a life they love, so schedule a visit with our community!
