Games to Play With the Aged

Scrabble

• Scrabble is a lot of fun and is a great mind-builder for young and old alike. The game gives the elderly a chance to use their minds and concentrate which helps ward off memory loss, Alzheimer's and dementia. The pieces are easy to handle for arthritic fingers and each game has infinite variations, making it always interesting. It may also make older feel good knowing that they can defeat their younger relatives at something, especially if they have limited mobility. This game works especially well for elderly people with higher educations; they often use and know many more words than younger people.

Card Games

• Card games became popular in the Western United States when cowboys and pioneers were the primary citizens in that part of the country. Cards are compact, easy to carry and can be used in dozens of games. Many elderly people may have played cards often when they were younger and would enjoy keeping their skills sharp. Wager something on the game like pennies, your favorite sugar-free candy or small craft objects if both of you enjoy beading or other crafting. Teach your elderly relative a new game or ask him or her to teach you a game they played long ago. Card games can also keep minds sharp, especially if combined with conversation or another activity.

Ping Pong

• This game is perfect for aged people with high or low mobility and good hand-eye coordination. It is a low-impact game that offers a small amount of exercise to keep the muscles toned and offers the mental stimulation of focusing on the ball. If your elderly opponent is in a wheelchair, you can even up the odds by sitting in a chair and lowering the table while you play .