Recommended for seniors! Fun circle-based recreational activities
Recreational time at care facilities is so much more enjoyable when you can sit face-to-face with staff and friends, isn’t it?
In this article, we introduce fun, circle-based activities that are perfect for older adults—everyone can see each other’s faces while participating!
We’ve gathered a variety of activities: ones you can do seated using simple props like balls, ones you can do around a table, and even light exercises.
Enjoy them while sharing each other’s wonderful smiles!
- [For Seniors] Simple Recreational Activities You Can Enjoy While Seated
- [For Seniors] Easy and fun seated activities you can do in your room
- [For Seniors] Exciting! Ball-Based Recreation
- [For Seniors] Recreational Activities Enjoyable in Large Groups
- [For Seniors] Fun Recreational Activities Without Equipment
- [For Seniors] Today’s Recommended Activity: Fun and Engaging
- For Seniors: Fun and Lively Exercise Recreation
- [For Seniors] Enjoy safely even during the COVID-19 pandemic: Seated activities
- [For Seniors] Recreational activities and games that let you have fun while strengthening your legs
- [Elderly Day Service] Let’s all have fun! Games and recreational activities
- [For Seniors] A Fun Sports Day! Recreational Activities You Can Do Safely
- Hand games that liven things up for seniors—also great brain training
- [For Seniors] Exciting Team-Based Recreational Activities
Recommended for seniors! Fun circle-based recreational activities (21–30)
Hotto Atto Nanto Taisō
“Hotto Atto Nanto” is the catchphrase of Nanto City in Toyama Prefecture.
It conveys a sense of security and comfort, giving you a feel for the atmosphere of Nanto.
“From the Green Village” is a song created to commemorate the 5th anniversary of Nanto City’s merger, and let’s move our bodies along with this song.
Despite its slow tempo, the uplifting lyrics of “From the Green Village” bring a calm, peaceful feeling.
It’s a song that resonates with older adults as well.
The rhythm is just right for seniors to move their bodies to, so please give it a try.
Slow aerobics to the tune of “Alps Ichiman-jaku”
As people age, many find it bothersome to move their bodies.
Let’s get moving with slow aerobics that can be done while seated in a chair.
As the name suggests, slow aerobics involves gently moving your body to music.
It’s said to help raise heart rate and encourage breathing even for older adults who don’t have many opportunities to exercise.
It’s recommended to do rhythmic exercises to familiar songs—like “Alps Ichiman-jaku”—that many seniors know well.
Moving to music can also help bring out a sense of fun in older adults.
Exercise with Sazae-san
When you think of Sunday evening TV shows, many people probably think of Sazae-san.
Let’s try moving our bodies to the Sazae-san song.
It’s a long-running program, so many older adults are likely familiar with the song and the content of the anime.
When it’s a song you know, it’s easier to get your body moving.
The Sazae-san song also has a bright, cheerful feel, which can help calm and uplift older adults while they exercise.
Both the opening and ending themes work well for fun exercises, so I recommend either one.
Please give it a try!
Rhythmic gymnastics at Blue Light Yokohama
Released in 1968, “Blue Light Yokohama” is one of the signature songs of the Showa era.
Many older adults have likely sung it at karaoke or heard it on TV or the radio.
Let’s try some rhythmic exercises with this familiar tune.
Since the song portrays a couple in love, it could be fun to incorporate movements that match the lyrics.
Older adults might feel nostalgic, recalling the time when this song was popular as they exercise.
You could even sing along while doing the exercises.
Rhythmic gymnastics on a journey of the heart
Let me introduce a rhythm exercise you can do on a gentle, melody-filled journey of the heart.
While seated, clap along with the song and alternately touch the insides of your knees.
Cross your arms in front of your chest as if placing your hands on your shoulders.
Moving your feet in step as well may also serve as a good workout for the brain.
The key is to move your whole body with large motions, but only within a comfortable, enjoyable range.
When you move, try to include your facial expressions and feelings too—you may find it even more fun to sing your heart’s journey.
Slow aerobics with Momotaro
Many older adults are likely familiar with the folktale Momotaro.
There’s also a children’s song that tells the story of Momotaro, isn’t there? Let’s try moving our bodies to that song.
This is called slow aerobics, where you move gently in time with the music.
You can do the exercises standing, but they can also be done while seated.
It’s an easy routine for older adults who find standing difficult.
Through gentle, low-strain movements, it may also help you lead a more vibrant, fulfilling daily life.
Slow aerobics to When the Saints Go Marching In
Aerobics—moving your body to music—can feel difficult for people who have trouble with movement.
This exercise adapts aerobics by slowing the tempo and using gentler motions, making it accessible for anyone.
Find a calmer rhythm than the original song and move your body as if buoyantly engaging your whole body.
Rather than trying to keep up with the music, it’s more important to use your entire body, so it may be best to proceed at a rhythm that suits the participants.
