For seniors: Fun shiritori—enjoyable and easy to play
Shiritori has long been a beloved game.
It’s also hugely popular as a way for seniors to train their brains and as a venue for communication.
There aren’t any difficult rules—here are some fun variations of shiritori packed with clever twists that make it enjoyable and easy for anyone to start.
There are so many types of shiritori!
Simply connecting words gives your brain a workout and helps you feel refreshed!
Find something that looks interesting in the article and enjoy a wonderful time with your family and friends!
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For Seniors: Fun Shiritori. Enjoyable and Easy to Play (21–30)
Memory Shiritori

Let me introduce “memory shiritori,” where you memorize and repeat the answers that come up during the game.
In regular shiritori with words like suika (watermelon), kame (turtle), and menko (a traditional game piece), you usually think of a word that starts with the last syllable of the previous word.
In memory shiritori, however, you memorize all the words that have been said since the game began and recite them as you go.
Shiritori itself is an excellent mental exercise that expands vocabulary and trains thinking skills.
Adding memorization makes it even more challenging.
When playing memory shiritori with older adults, it can help to add some thoughtful adjustments.
Try giving hints or writing the words used so far on a whiteboard so they’re visible.
4-letter shiritori

Try thinking of four-letter words.
There are many if you consider examples like taiyou (sun), ryokou (travel), and tenohira (palm).
However, it can be hard to come up with words on the spot.
For those who are used to regular shiritori, how about playing a version with a limit on the number of characters? As we age, we tend to think less, which can lead to declines in cognitive function and even dementia.
Let’s stimulate the brain with a four-letter-word shiritori game.
If older adults have trouble recalling words, try offering hints and other adjustments to help them participate.
In conclusion
Shiritori helps smiles and conversations spread through wordplay.
Try using the ideas we introduced and enjoy a fun time with those close to you! Because it’s simple and easy to do, it’s easy to keep up—and it will brighten both your heart and your mind.


