Joyful activities make us all feel truly alive, engaged, and connected. The world becomes more vibrant, inviting, and happier with a bit of play every day. Play is even more important for seniors – it can help them feel more relaxed, joyful, and mentally stimulated. Seniors can benefit mentally and physically by incorporating play into their daily routines.

Benefits of Play & Fun Activities

Play should be a significant part of life for everyone. In addition to being fun, play and enjoyable activities have many benefits for seniors.

Improve Memory: Playing and laughter can amp up memory, increase mental sharpness, and improve recall.

Increase Connection: Having fun can help older adults improve relationships and make new friends.

Enhance Emotional Well-Being: Partaking in enjoyable activities can multiply moments of joy, expand optimism, and reduce stress.

Boost Health: Fun moments can boost the immune system

and minimize the perception of pain. 

5 Popular & Inspiring Types of Play

1. Games & Sports
   Physical activities allow seniors to exercise, improve coordination, and feel like they’re in control. Games like golf, pickle ball, horseshoes, bocce, and shuffleboard add a social component that can help delay the problems caused by dementia.
2. Music & Dancing
   Moving and grooving to the music raises heartbeats AND spirits. Music also helps give those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease an opportunity to connect with memories and a deeper sense of who they are.
3. Social Gatherings
   Socializing is a powerful way to add fun to a senior’s life, especially if they get to reminisce with friends and family. Good conversations can be great mood elevators!
4. Board Games, Card Games, & Puzzles
   Board games and card games offer ways to socialize and benefit from the joyful challenges of friendly competition. Puzzles can sharpen the mind and, when completed, give a sense of accomplishment.
5. Outdoor Activities
   Being outdoors in nice weather is an instant mood booster. Birdwatching, gardening, and going for a walk or picnic are great ways to bring a little joy into a senior’s day.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

With so many ways to enhance seniors’ lives with play, the benefits of having fun are just too great to ignore. Our Comfort Keepers® can help by connecting seniors to playful experiences that activate their minds and brighten their day.