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Lovely senior life

[For Seniors] Recreational Activities Enjoyable in Large Groups

We want to spend time filled with fun and smiles! With that in mind, we’re excited to introduce a variety of cleverly designed recreational activities.

From nostalgic games that get large groups buzzing to handmade games and snack-time activities, we’ve gathered options seniors can enjoy together.

These activities help build concentration while moving the body and spark lively conversation.

If everyone takes on the challenge together, you’re sure to make wonderful memories.

Be sure to incorporate them into your daily recreation!

Quiz and Brain Training Games (21–30)

Clap-Clap Game

Class activity: 'Clap-Clap Game' #shorts #MimakitaniLab #elementaryschool #classmanagement #recreation
Clap-Clap Game

This is a game where everyone tries to clap right in time with the designated person’s movements.

The designated person turns to the side, extends one hand, and then brings the other hand over to overlap it.

Everyone claps at the exact moment the hands meet.

If the hands come together too slowly, it’s hard to sync the sound, so keep a certain pace.

While you might expect a steady rhythm, the key to making the game exciting is throwing in twists—like not letting the hands meet on the final beat.

late hand in rock-paper-scissors

[Senior Brain-Training Exercise] Must-See! 8 After-the-Fact Rock-Paper-Scissors Brain Trainings [Preventive Care]
late hand in rock-paper-scissors

This is a perfect brain-training game called “after-the-fact rock-paper-scissors.” The leader first plays rock, paper, or scissors, and then participants play their hands afterward according to the prompt.

For a tie, you just imitate the leader’s hand, but when it comes to winning or losing, it can get a bit confusing.

Anyone can play easily and no equipment is needed, so it’s a simple game to try.

Bingo

Recreation for seniors: Super brain training to boost memory and thinking skills! Paper Cup Bingo
Bingo

Here’s an introduction to a “Bingo Game” using paper cups.

Many older adults are probably familiar with bingo, right? Normally, bingo is a game where you cross off the called numbers on your card and try to line up a row.

In this version, you prepare paper cups in three sizes—large, medium, and small—and place one cup in each square on the grid.

A larger cup can be stacked over an opponent’s cup that’s already been placed.

You’ll aim both to complete lines with your own cups and to block your opponent’s moves.

It’s said that when something feels “a bit difficult,” your brain works harder than when it’s simply “doable.” Although it seems like a simple game, there’s a lot to think about, which makes it even more effective for stimulating the brain.

What’s in the box? game

Today's activity at Day Service Asumiru
What's in the box? game

The classic “What’s in the Box?” game you often see on TV is also recommended as a recreation activity for older adults.

Hands are said to be “a second brain outside the body,” an important organ.

It’s often noted that using your fingers and hands activates the brain.

In this game, you guess the contents of the box relying solely on your sense of touch, making it a great fit for things like dementia prevention.

Let’s look for some fish and try catching them!

Enjoying a fishing game — Final day of the Tamagawa Gakuen Day Service Summer Festival
Let's look for some fish and try catching them!

The fish-finding game played as a recreation activity for older adults is always a big hit.

It’s easy to enjoy not only for those who love fishing, but also for complete beginners.

The game involves placing various fish on a table and catching them with a rod.

A staff member calls out the name of a fish on the table, and the older adults look for it.

Because it requires split-second decisions, it helps develop their powers of observation.

Through this game, older adults can learn fish names, and it also serves as brain training, so it’s highly recommended.

Team Recreation (1–10)

Rock-Paper-Scissors Relay

Super simple and exciting! For fun senior activities, this is it: Rock-Paper-Scissors Relay
Rock-Paper-Scissors Relay

Running relays can be tough, but this rock-paper-scissors relay is easy even for seniors! Split into two teams, and have teammates sit side by side in a row.

Players do rock-paper-scissors with the person next to them on the same team, and if the neighbor wins, they receive the baton.

Repeat this, and the team that passes the baton to their anchor first wins.

You can play rock-paper-scissors as many times as needed until the neighbor wins—unless they win, you can’t move on.

It’s a simple relay that works even with lots of people sitting in a line!

rod soccer

1st Stick Soccer Tournament
rod soccer

Instead of kicking the ball with your feet, this is stick soccer where you move the ball on the court with a stick to aim for a goal.

Teams sit facing each other along a narrow, elongated court and use sticks to move the ball, guiding it toward their own goal.

Defense is also important to prevent the other team from scoring! The sticks are made of soft material, and you can play while seated, so it’s safe.