[Evolving Daycare Services] A summary of engaging recreational initiatives that excite older adults
In recent years, initiatives aimed at a new, evolved style of day service—different from the traditional model—have been gaining attention.
While many people still prefer conventional day services, there are surely those who would like to try an evolved version.
What we’re introducing here is a fresh concept that incorporates unusual recreational activities actually conducted at senior facilities across Japan.
“If you want to create a new environment where users can enjoy themselves even more,” we think these ideas will serve as helpful inspiration.
Be sure to read to the end!
By adopting new ideas, you can build even better facilities.
- [For Seniors] Enjoyable Day Service: A Collection of Fun Event Ideas
- [For Seniors] Easy and fun seated activities you can do in your room
- [For Seniors] Today’s Recommended Activity: Fun and Engaging
- [For Seniors] Highlights of Fun Events at Day-Service Centers
- [For Seniors] Fun Recreational Activities Without Equipment
- [For Seniors] Recreational activities and games that let you have fun while strengthening your legs
- For Seniors: Enjoy Every Day! A Collection of Senior Recreation Ideas
- [Elderly Day Service] Let’s all have fun! Games and recreational activities
- [For Seniors] Let’s Start a Fun Craft Activity
- [For Seniors] Simple Tabletop Games: Fun and Engaging Recreational Activities
- [For Seniors] Fun and Engaging Brain-Training Recreation
- [For Seniors] Simple Recreational Activities You Can Enjoy While Seated
- [For Seniors] Guaranteed to Be a Hit! Popular Day Service Recreational Activities
[Evolved Day Services] Summary of Engaging Recreational Activities for Seniors (21–30)
Makimaki Apple Game
As a recreation activity for day services or childcare settings, we propose the “Roll-Up Apple Game”! First, place paper apple motifs on construction paper and attach them.
Set them a short distance away; connect the stick and paper with clear tape, then roll the stick to wind the tape and draw the apples toward yourself.
It should get very lively if several people compete! By starting with the crafting process, participants can experience both making the materials and playing the game.
Please give it a try together and have fun!
casino
This video features an “unconventional day service” inspired by Las Vegas casinos.
Based on the concept of a care facility that seniors will want to keep attending, it offers table games like mahjong and blackjack, as well as pachinko, where participants look lively and seem to be having a great time.
Doctors specializing in dementia are taking notice, noting that the fun of games—where winning and losing are mixed together—stimulates the brain, elevates cognitive levels, and, when done continuously, improves cognitive function.
footbath
How about recreating a foot bath like the ones you often see at hot spring resorts? Foot baths are said to help reduce swelling, relieve sensitivity to cold, and improve insomnia.
They’re also expected to have a relaxing effect.
If you set one up, it could refresh both your body and mind.
By the way, there’s a recommended way to use a foot bath: first, prepare water at about 40°C (104°F) and soak for around 15 minutes.
Then stretch your ankles and be sure to hydrate well.
mochi pounding
If you’re looking for food-related recreational activities, you can’t leave out mochi pounding.
Most people know what mochi pounding is, but many may not have seen it up close.
There are also those who haven’t seen it live in a while.
That’s why, if you include a mochi-pounding event, people will be surprised and delighted by the live intensity.
Plus, actually pounding the mochi and shouting together—like “Eiyaa!”—is a fun way to get everyone excited.
In conclusion
There might even have been ideas that make you think, “Huh, are we really allowed to do that?” If you want something trendy, how about trying e-sports initiatives? Please keep innovating and expanding your ideas, and create something that will truly delight your users!