Calculation problems that train the brain for seniors
There are many types of brain training, such as spot-the-difference and puzzles, but in this article we’ll introduce “calculation problems” for seniors.
We’ve gathered enjoyable brain-training exercises like change calculations, fill-in-the-blank equations, and simple addition.
Brain training is also known to help prevent dementia, so if you’re interested, give it a try.
It might take time to answer at first, but as you keep at it, you’ll get used to it—so take it easy and progress little by little.
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[For Seniors] Calculation Problems for Brain Training (11–20)
Multiplication problems
For brain training, many places start with simple arithmetic problems like addition and subtraction.
Calculations that felt difficult at first may gradually become easier as you keep doing them.
Once you’re comfortable with addition and subtraction, try tackling multiplication problems next.
Multiplication is quite a step up in difficulty, but just like before, you’ll get used to it if you keep at it steadily—and that, too, is the result of your brain training!
small change calculation
Let me introduce a brain-training exercise that uses counting coins: the Coin Calculation game.
Coins will appear on the screen—memorize them within the time limit and calculate the total amount.
The double task of taking a quick look, memorizing, and then calculating greatly activates your brain.
Calculating and paying money are essential activities for living in society.
In fact, it has been reported that in the early stages of dementia, counting coins becomes difficult, leading people to rely more on bills.
If you’ve had fewer chances to shop in your daily life, please give this a try.
Number Shape Quiz
It’s a puzzle where numbers are written in a 3×3 grid, and you have to figure out which number goes in the center.
The time limit is one minute.
There’s a hint, but it doesn’t reveal which number it is, so you need to prove which number belongs there.
Focus on the sequences of numbers horizontally and vertically; you’ll need both the creative idea of “what if?” and the logical reasoning to calculate and verify.
If you stay calm, you should be able to reach the answer.
In senior care facilities, writing it on a whiteboard and solving it with a group can make it enjoyable for everyone.
It’s also recommended as a way to help prevent cognitive decline.
Calculation Quiz
We would like to introduce a “calculation quiz” that cultivates logical thinking, memory, and arithmetic skills.
There are four problems in total; the answers to three are known.
The final problem provides a hint, and it’s a quiz where you deduce the answer by working through the calculations leading up to it.
Starting from the answer and working backward, you calculate which numbers fit into the parts marked with symbols such as circles and squares, and you need to remember the numbers used along the way.
Because it requires performing multiple activities simultaneously, it provides stimulating content for the brain.
There is also a time limit, so it’s important to proceed calmly without rushing.
Word Calculation Game
Here is a recreational activity where you try calculating words using the rules of arithmetic.
First, present a few example problems that allow people to discover the rule, and write their answers.
Then, once you feel people have grasped the rule, present the actual problems.
If no one can figure out the rule, it can get dull, so it’s a good idea to offer additional hints if necessary.
If you prepare the problems in advance, you can start without any special materials, so it’s something you can enjoy even in short spare moments.
In conclusion
How did you find the calculation problems? Back when we were students, we solved them every day, but as adults we don’t often get the chance, do we? Some older adults might have felt they were “nostalgic” or “refreshing.” It’s important to keep up with brain training, so try to stick with it every day, steadily and within a comfortable range.