[For Seniors] Fun Origami That Also Works as Rehabilitation
Origami is also being incorporated into rehabilitation for the elderly.
The process of folding, which engages the mind and uses the fingertips, appears to provide moderate stimulation to the brain and help activate it.
So this time, we’ll introduce origami that can be expected to have positive effects for rehabilitation.
We’ve gathered pieces with simple steps that are easy for older adults to try, as well as origami you can play with once it’s finished!
Origami offers a sense of accomplishment when a piece is completed, and because it’s familiar to many seniors, it can be enjoyed across generations.
Some older adults may find it difficult at first.
However, once they get used to it, gradually increasing the difficulty should make it even more enjoyable!
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[For Seniors] Fun Origami That Also Serves as Rehabilitation (21–30)
Sakura mochi
When it comes to spring wagashi, sakuramochi is the classic choice, isn’t it? This time, we’re introducing an idea to express this charming seasonal treat with origami.
Make the mochi portion with pink origami paper, then wrap it with a leaf made from green origami paper, and you’ll have a sakuramochi that looks just like the real thing.
The steps are simple, making it easy and enjoyable even for older adults.
The fine hand movements involved can also help stimulate the brain and support rehabilitation.
The finished pieces are perfect as spring decorations and can be used to create a seasonal wall display.
It’s origami that’s delightful to look at and soothing to make.
ribbon bookmark
A ribbon bookmark made from a single sheet of origami paper is a cute item that will have people asking, “How did you make that?” Fold it so the patterned side ends up on the outside as you go.
Up to a certain point, the steps are the same as making a crane, so if you’ve folded a crane before, you may find it easier.
Because it includes some fine-motor steps, it’s great for finger rehabilitation and exercise for older adults.
The ribbon shape may look difficult, but once you understand the folds, it’s easy to make—so give it a try!
[For Seniors] Enjoyable Origami That Also Works as Rehabilitation (31–40)
Triangle Bookmark
If you’re looking for an easy, quick-to-make bookmark, this is it! It’s a triangular bookmark made from origami.
Place the patterned side of the origami on the outside and fold it twice into a square.
Leave one layer unsealed at the opening of the square, and fold the rest inward together.
You can leave it as is, or fold the remaining single layer in from the opposite side to make a simple triangle—highly recommended.
The size of the bookmark changes depending on the size of the origami paper, so you can enjoy customizing it.
Attach it to a notebook and it can double as a pocket, too.
It’s very easy, so try folding it with your favorite patterned origami paper!
origami bookmark
Let me introduce a simple, easy bookmark that makes a great gift for someone who loves reading.
Fold a sheet of origami paper in half and open it, then fold the right side along the crease.
Fold the top and bottom edges, and after folding twice along the previous crease, you’ll have a neat rectangle.
Place a string in between and secure it with double-sided tape, and your origami bookmark is complete.
The folding method is very simple, so it’s easy for seniors to try as well.
Why not use your favorite pattern to create a one-of-a-kind bookmark?
Peach Blossom Wreath
Here’s an introduction to a cute peach blossom wreath made with origami.
Both the wreath base and the peach blossoms are created by combining individual parts.
Since many of the steps are simple, it should be suitable for a large number of older adults to try.
Origami involves thinking ahead to the next steps and the finished piece, so it’s said to have brain-training benefits.
What’s more, the fingers are so closely connected to the brain that they’re often called the “second brain.” Using your fingertips is said to stimulate and activate the brain.
Please consider using this peach blossom wreath activity for recreation.
Goldfish made with origami
Here’s an idea for making a goldfish using two sheets of origami paper.
If you use 15 cm paper, the goldfish will turn out quite large, so if you want to make a smaller one, cut the paper into quarters and use that.
With the first sheet, make the goldfish’s head and body, as well as the dorsal and pectoral fins.
With the second sheet, make the decorative tail fin.
Basically, you’ll create creases and fold along them, but for the tail fin you’ll need to open up the pockets to squash them and fold the edges narrowly, so proceed carefully.
Once both parts are finished, attach them together, add the eyes, and you’re done.
Tanabata Wreath Made with Origami
We’d like to introduce a Tanabata wreath you can make with origami.
When you hear “Tanabata,” what do you think of? Orihime and Hikoboshi, stars, bamboo? Let’s fold origami based on those Tanabata images and attach them to a wreath.
There are many origami designs for Orihime and Hikoboshi, ranging from simple to intricate.
An origami wreath is made by combining identical wreath components.
It seems like a lovely activity to do with older adults while reminiscing about Tanabata memories.