Lovely senior life

[Recreation] Summary of Recommended Origami Ideas for Seniors

Care Worker Initial Training Certification ObtainedNakajima Junko
Leveraging my experience working as a care worker at a day service, I am currently active as a writer in the caregiving and welfare fields. Beyond writing, I hope to expand my work into web design and illustration. I am a mother of three who has begun studying to become a certified social worker.

Origami is a seated group activity that everyone can enjoy.

Because origami uses your fingertips, it also serves as brain training and can help prevent cognitive decline.

If you don’t fold regularly, it’s easy to forget how to make certain models, isn’t it?

In this article, we’ve gathered seasonal items, animals, plants, and more—from easy folds to more advanced designs.

You can make lots of pieces to decorate the wall, or stick them onto fans and other items to create your own projects.

Why not read this article and try folding together with older adults?

[Recreation] A collection of recommended origami ideas for seniors (141–150)

Morning glory vessel ornament

Easy Paper Morning Glory (with audio commentary) How to make an easy paper morning glory

Morning glory vessel ornament

Introducing a “Morning Glory Bowl Decoration” that also serves as interior decor for your room.

The morning glory made with two sheets of origami has a three-dimensional shape, making it perfect for displaying in a bowl.

The bowl is also made of origami, and the key is to use a thicker type of paper.

First, crease the origami, then fold it into the shape of a bowl.

Although the steps are detailed, dexterous seniors may enjoy making it.

Adding leaves and vines to the origami morning glory makes it look even more like a floral arrangement.

You can also arrange various origami flowers in the bowl for a lovely effect.

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Dandelion wreath

Introducing how to make a three-dimensional dandelion wreath decoration with origami! Why not try making it as a spring decoration for April and May? [Tsukuru-mon]

Dandelion wreath

Spring is the season when the weather warms and many flowers begin to appear, and you’ll likely spot more dandelions as well.

This craft recreates dandelions—a quintessential spring flower—using origami and combines them into a wreath-like shape.

To make the dandelion flowers, fold a strip of origami paper in half and then fold it again to make it narrower, cut fine slits along the edge, roll it up, then spread and shape it.

The wreath base is made by assembling triangular units, and it’s recommended to use green to evoke leaves.

Finally, combine all the parts and add decorative elements like leaf pieces to complete the project.

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Tonton Sumo

How to fold the origami “Tonton Sumo”

Tonton Sumo

This is a sumo wrestler shape that uses creases to stand upright and can also be used as a piece for tabletop “ton-ton” sumo.

It’s important to be mindful of exactly where you align the folds; the more precise the creases, the more stable the balance when it stands.

The feet are firmly layered using reverse folds, so the shape is less likely to lose balance even when the ring is tapped.

By folding the wrestler accurately, you can develop fine finger movements, and then, when playing ton-ton sumo, focus on how to apply force and control your taps.

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Kusudama made with six sheets of origami

Easy Kusudama Made with 6 Sheets of Origami Paper | Origami 6-Paper Kusudama (Easy)

Kusudama made with six sheets of origami

Kusudama balls, densely covered with flowers and decorations, are festive ornaments that symbolize wishes for longevity.

Let’s recreate that flower-packed, three-dimensional look by combining origami.

Prepare six sheets of origami paper with different patterns on the front and back, and use them to make dimensional units.

Carefully and gently fold the pleats with precise reverses—this is a key point that contributes to the roundness when the units are assembled.

The gaps that appear when the six units are combined are also part of the charm, and their light-transmitting structure adds an airy feel.

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Origami Heart

Heart Mini Bag Origami / DIY Gift Mini Bag / Heart Origami

Origami Heart

This is a heart-shaped bag with a handle that can also be used as a small-item case.

Divide the origami with a crease down the middle, then shape both sides into identical hearts.

You’ll glue the two finished ends together to form the bag, so making the shapes match precisely is key to its beauty.

Finally, attach a handle using something like a mask string to complete it.

If you’re concerned about the fine creases on the inside, you might layer a lining paper before sealing the ends.

Think about how to place the folds so the heart’s curves feel natural, and experiment with a shaping method that works for you.

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In conclusion

It may be a phrase that has already come up in our introduction, but finger exercises are said to stimulate the brain, right? Origami is perfect for that! One of the reasons I recommend it is that it’s easy to prepare.

It might also be fun to make things together with older adults!