[For Seniors] Association Game with 3 Hints: A Satisfying List of Topics When You Get It
Word association games are one type of recreation that can help stimulate the brains of older adults.
Not only does carefully thinking through prompts serve as brain training, but arriving at the answer also gives a sense of accomplishment.
The word association game we’re introducing here involves deriving the answer from three clues.
Start with the most difficult clue, and save the hint that’s most likely to lead to the answer for last.
If you’re a care worker who finds that coming up with prompts really works your brain, please use this as a reference when preparing your word association games.
[For Seniors] Word Association Game with 3 Hints: Satisfying When You Get It — List of Topics (1–10)
Bitter, darkish drink, vending machine
Soothed by its unique aroma! Using the hints “a bitter, dark-colored drink from a vending machine,” let’s figure out the answer.
When you think of a black-colored beverage, what comes to mind? From those, it’s best to choose one with a bitter flavor! If you still can’t guess, take a close look at the drinks lined up in a nearby vending machine.
The correct answer is “coffee.” It’s something that fits into many people’s lives, serving as a switch for relaxation time or moments when you want to focus.
Octopus, an Osaka specialty, grilled while being spun around.
Speaking of octopus, there’s that dish! Using the hint “the Osaka specialty with octopus that’s grilled while being spun around,” let’s figure out the answer.
With the hint that it’s an Osaka specialty using octopus, many of you probably guessed it right away.
The correct answer is takoyaki.
The crispy outside and gooey inside of takoyaki make it a favorite among both kids and adults.
The aroma of the sauce, aonori seaweed, and bonito flakes on top really whets the appetite.
It’s a staple at food stalls and festivals, and it might bring back nostalgic memories for some people.
Fire, summer, swirling spiral
That summertime essential! Using the hints “fire, summer, swirling spiral,” let’s figure out the answer.
It’s a spiral-shaped item that’s a hallmark of summer.
The correct answer is “mosquito coil”! When you’re cooling off on the veranda at a summer dusk, that familiar scent seems to waft in from somewhere.
Many of us have felt a little flutter of excitement at that smell that signals the arrival of summer.
Its distinctive spiral shape is iconic, and it’s a bug-repelling item that has long been loved in households.
Japanese cuisine, a black liquid, made from soybeans
An indispensable item for Japanese people! Using the hints “Japanese cuisine, a black liquid, made from soybeans,” let’s figure out the answer.
Many of you probably got it right away, didn’t you? If it’s difficult, here’s another hint: it’s a seasoning.
It’s a seasoning that has long been loved in Japan.
The correct answer is soy sauce.
It feels satisfying and refreshing when you get the right answer, doesn’t it? It could be fun to expand the conversation from the quiz by sharing your favorite dishes or foods that use soy sauce!
Japan’s symbol, spring, cherry-blossom viewing
When you think of hanami, that flower comes to mind! Using the hints “a symbol of Japan, spring, hanami,” let’s figure out the answer.
Many of you have probably gone flower viewing in spring, right? If you recall that time, you’ll likely get closer to the answer.
The hint about it being a symbol of Japan is also key! The correct answer is “sakura” (cherry blossoms).
Sakura are known for their pale pink petals, and the way they flutter down is fleeting and beautiful, soothing the hearts of those who watch.
Nighttime cherry blossoms and cherry-lined avenues also have a uniquely Japanese charm, letting us deeply feel the changing of the seasons.
Green leaves, orange color, in English: carrot
That vivid orange vegetable! Using the hints “green leaves, orange color, and called ‘carrot’ in English,” let’s figure out the answer.
Many of you have probably used it to add color to your cooking.
The correct answer is “carrot”! It’s a familiar vegetable used in a variety of dishes such as stews, stir-fries, salads, and cakes.
It’s rich in nutrients and healthy, and its bright orange color adds a cheerful touch to meals.
This quiz could also spark conversations about the shape and taste of carrots, as well as memories of dishes from the past.
A celebratory day when the number increases once a year.
It’s a special day that comes once a year for everyone! Using the hint “a celebratory day when the number increases once a year,” let’s figure out the answer.
Some of you may already know it right away.
If you picture your loved ones or adorable children and look at the hint again, it might click.
The correct answer is “birthday.” On a special day like this, it’s nice to celebrate with cake and your favorite drinks! It’s an important day to feel grateful for growing older and to foster a positive wish to stay healthy and well in the days to come.


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