Enjoy a Comfortable Hospital Stay! Fun Pastime Activities Recommended for Seniors
A hospital stay is a time to let your body rest, but it can get boring when there’s nothing to do every day.
Having too much time on your hands can sometimes be taxing both mentally and physically, so it’s important to find light recreational activities that help pass the time.
In this article, we’ll introduce enjoyable ways for older adults to spend their time comfortably during hospitalization.
These activities not only support the mental and physical well-being of seniors, but can also help prevent dementia—we’ve gathered many ideas.
Please use this article as a reference to make hospital life more pleasant for the older adults in your care.
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Have a Comfortable Hospital Stay! Recommended Pastime Activities for Seniors (21–30)
Rubik’s Cube
This is a classic puzzle where you twist and turn the blocks to align all six faces.
It tests your ability to visualize how each square will move and where it will end up.
Relying on intuition alone makes completing all six faces difficult, so learning specific algorithms is important—starting by solving just one face is recommended.
As you get better at moving the blocks to the positions you intend, you’ll also start to feel yourself getting closer to completing all six faces.
Chaotic Balloon Volleyball
https://www.tiktok.com/@cs.matsuyama/video/7109002320926608642It’s a game where two teams sit facing each other across a table and try to knock as many balloons as possible into the opponent’s side.
With so many balloons in play, players must fend off attacks while batting balloons away, so quick hand movements are put to the test.
During the time limit, you’re constantly chasing balloons with your hands, creating a lively atmosphere.
By eagerly reaching for the colorful balloons, the game not only trains physical movement but also offers visual enjoyment.
Balloon volleyball with newspaper-stick bats
Balloon volleyball played using rolled-up newspaper sticks lets you reach farther with the tool, while also challenging more delicate control of force.
It’s also important to treat the table like a volleyball court: set up a proper net in the middle so you can enjoy the volleyball atmosphere.
The higher the net, the more it encourages players to hit the balloon upward, which naturally directs their gaze up and can help improve posture.
Rather than focusing on winning, encouraging players to keep the rally going will likely help them enjoy it for longer.
Brain Activity Drill
Many older adults find that they have plenty of time every day.
For those who already have hobbies, and those who are looking to find one, brain-training workbooks are highly recommended.
They’re also handy items to have during a hospital stay.
It’s nice that you can do them in little pockets of free time.
Brain-training drills include puzzles, arithmetic, kanji, riddles, and more—perfect for cognitive training for seniors.
If you’ve been feeling like your recent memories are a bit hazy, give them a try! They provide good stimulation for the brain and are said to help prevent dementia.
Craft kit
When you’re in the hospital, it’s easy to overthink things.
Having something you can get absorbed in at times like that might help lift your spirits.
A perfect gift for the often downcast days of a hospital stay is a craft kit.
It comes with all the materials you need, so even beginners can make something with ease.
Wool felt kits, for example, include everything in one set, making them easy for newcomers to start.
You can find craft kits at 100-yen shops, and there are also other DIY kits available, so it’s nice to try your hand at various projects.
training gear
Even during a hospital stay, incorporating training gear as part of rehabilitation can be a great idea.
You might consider giving a loved one some training equipment as a gift.
Among training tools, an electric cycle machine is especially recommended.
By placing the feet on the pedals and moving them, it gently strengthens the lower body.
It can be used while seated, and even while lying down, allowing the user to train according to their physical and mental condition.
Other popular options that are easy to use without strain include yoga mats and resistance bands.
Portable Player & DVD
Many people find that being hospitalized without entertainment can be depressing.
In such times, a portable player and some DVDs make a great gift.
Giving DVDs of the patient’s favorite dramas or movies will surely be appreciated.
Even if they can’t sit up, a portable player lets them watch while lying down, so it’s a good option.
Since people tend to feel mentally and physically down during a hospital stay, choosing DVDs with uplifting content will likely make them even happier.