Simple games for preventing and improving dementia
In this article, we introduce games that are effective for preventing and improving dementia in older adults.
This is for those looking for simple recreational activities that can stimulate the brain.
We selected activities that are easy to do yet engaging and enjoyable.
The rules are straightforward, which makes them easy to understand.
Some physical games can be played even without any equipment.
Please make use of them not only for events but also during free time.
Simple Games (1–10) for Dementia Prevention and Improvement
Ready, set! Game
The “Se-no! Game” is a brain-training activity you can enjoy with simple rules.
Everyone shouts “Se-no!” together, then announces a number while raising their arms or legs.
It might feel a bit tricky at first, but once you try it, you’ll quickly see how fun it is.
You win if the total of the numbers matches the target, so you’ll be fully engaging your brain as you play.
It also trains your decision-making and reflexes, so it’s highly recommended.
It deepens communication, too, so it’s sure to get everyone excited.
Let’s give it a try together!
Ping-pong ball picking game
The ping-pong ball pickup game is a wonderful recreation that combines fun and exercise.
Skillfully using a spoon to pick up ping-pong balls helps develop dexterity.
Competing together naturally brings out smiles.
Through the game, interactions among older adults also deepen.
Its difficulty is just right—not too hard, not too easy—providing the perfect level of stimulation.
Because it engages both the body and the mind, it’s effective for maintaining cognitive function.
By all means, enjoy giving it a try together.
Culinary Word Association Game
The cooking association game sounds fun.
You combine ingredients and cooking methods to guess the dish name.
For example, “blue-backed fish + simmer + miso” would be “mackerel simmered in miso.” I think it’s a really interesting game because it lets older adults make use of their rich knowledge of cooking.
It might even spark new recipe ideas.
If everyone enjoys it together, the conversation will flow and things will really liven up.
Please give it a try—you’re sure to have a great time.
Box-toss game with beanbags
Let me introduce a fun group activity: the Beanbag Box Toss Game.
It’s a game where you throw beanbags into moving boxes, using your focus and decision-making skills.
As the boxes speed up, it also trains your reaction time.
Playing with friends brings lots of smiles and lively conversation.
The rules are simple, so it’s easy to start right away.
If it gets too hard, you can adjust it—like using bigger boxes—for an extra twist.
Call out to each other and have fun moving your bodies together!
Shiritori game
The idea of introducing new rules to the shiritori game is very unique.
By saying your opponent’s word out loud once before starting your turn, it seems like it could stimulate both vocabulary and memory.
It’s a fun way to activate the brain, so it’s also recommended for older adults.
Another good point is that the rules are simple and easy to grasp right away.
Once you get used to it, adding a time limit or other challenges could make it even more mentally engaging.
I think it’s a game that everyone can enjoy together in a friendly atmosphere and that can deepen communication.
Cup Catch
Cup Catch is an exciting and fun game.
The focus you use to catch the ping-pong balls gives your brain a good workout.
Reacting to the steady stream of balls also helps energize your body.
When everyone plays together, smiles abound and conversations flow.
It’s wonderful how enjoying the game naturally deepens communication.
It’s easy to play yet totally absorbing—that’s the best part.
It’s also great for relieving stress, so give it a try.
You’ll refresh both mind and body while having fun.
Games you can play in a circle
Here’s an introduction to games that a small group can enjoy while sitting in a circle.
Because they can be done seated, many older adults will likely be able to join in.
For the exercise where you raise your arms and legs to the count of “1, 2, 3,” gradually increase the tempo as everyone gets used to it.
It’s said that aiming for a level that feels “a little difficult” actually engages the brain more than staying within your comfort zone.
Try adding small challenges, like speaking out loud along with the movements.
Of course, make sure older adults only participate within a safe and comfortable range.
If you use props, simply gripping them can stimulate the brain and help prevent falls.
What matters most in recreation is the spirit of having fun.
We hope these games serve as a helpful reference and that you enjoy your time together.
