[For Seniors] Simple Rhythm Exercises: Recommended Songs and Routines

Ochara-ka-hoi

Finger Play Brain Training: Ocharaka Rock-Paper-Scissors Exercise Part 1 #funny #braintraining #fun #recreation

By moving your body to the lyrics of the traditional hand-clapping song “Ocharaka Hoi,” it quickly turns into a game that stimulates the brain.

For example, during “Ses-ses-se,” place your hands on your back, and during the “Yoi-yoi-yoi” part, have your right hand represent 4 and your left hand represent 1, alternating the gestures.

Adding these actions engages memory, attention, and decision-making at the same time.

Performing multiple movements simultaneously like this is effective in preventing cognitive decline.

It can be done while seated and doesn’t depend on the number of participants.

It’s easy to introduce in care settings and is a type of brain training that people can continue without getting bored.

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kojifumi

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The Bento Box Song

[Children’s Song] The Lunchbox Song / Daisuke Yokoyama

Here’s an idea for enjoying the “Obentōbako no Uta” in completely different ways just by changing the tempo.

For example, when you sing it slowly, imagine a heavy, large lunch box and make your movements big and relaxed.

Conversely, when you speed up the tempo, pretend you’re making a small, cute lunch box, using compact, rhythmic motions.

Switching between these images stimulates brain activity and also provides sensory input to the hands.

It’s an enjoyable game you can do while seated, with little strain—and it’s sure to bring out smiles.

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kojifumi

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Zuizui Zukkorobashi

Nursery rhyme “Zuizuizuzukorobashi” #Japanese traditional kids’ game #Japanese nursery rhymes

Let me introduce a traditional hand game that uses an old children’s song, “Zuizui Zukkorobashi.” Participants sit in a circle and make small rings with their hands.

One person goes around inserting a finger into each hand ring in turn, and the person whose hand the finger enters on the last beat of the song switches places and becomes “it.” It’s simple, but by focusing on the timing of inserting the finger and staying aware, it helps develop attention and a sense of rhythm.

Another plus is that it can be done comfortably while seated without large body movements, making it a good opportunity to encourage interaction among participants.

It’s recommended as a fun recreational activity that stimulates the brain.

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kojifumi

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The Hill Where Mandarin Orange Blossoms Bloom

May hand play activity: 'Mikan no Hana Saku Oka' with lyrics

Clap hands alternately while facing each other as you sing.

Even such a simple movement can instantly turn into enjoyable communication when done to a song.

Moving your hands to the gentle melody of “Mikan no Saku Oka” stimulates the brain and helps prevent cognitive decline.

It can be done while seated, reducing physical strain, and it’s an easy activity for those who struggle to find a way to start a conversation.

This low-pressure hand game fosters interaction even in care settings and is perfect for daily recreation.

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kojifumi

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Yakiimo goo-choki-pa

[Children's Song] Yakiimo Goo-Chii-Paa / Daisuke Yokoyama

Here is an idea for a hands-on rhythm game called “Yakiimo Goo-Choki-Paa.” It’s a simple activity where you move your hands like rock-paper-scissors in time with the lyrics, but syncing to the rhythm stimulates the brain and quickly turns it into training that uses judgment and reflexes.

The motions naturally bring smiles as you play, easing tension and sparking interaction with those around you.

Although the movements are simple, they unexpectedly engage both mind and hands, making it easy to try and hard to get bored of.

Because it’s done while seated, even those concerned about their stamina can participate comfortably.

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kojifumi

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A-I-U-Be Exercises, Yokai Version

Aiue-be exercises, yokai version

Let’s try doing the “Ai-U-Be” mouth exercise to a cheerful anime song themed around bright, upbeat yokai! Some older adults may have watched this anime with their grandchildren back in the day.

If the song feels familiar, it might make it easier to engage in the exercise.

The Ai-U-Be exercise is recommended for preventing mouth breathing, which can affect tooth alignment and lead to cavities.

By doing the exercise, the tongue’s position changes, making nasal breathing easier.

Adding a melody to a routine exercise may also boost motivation for older adults.

Please feel free to make use of this idea!

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Nakajima Junko

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Singing and exercising with children’s songs

Song Brain Training: Simple Recreational and Health Exercises for Seniors — Suitable for Home and Day Service

These are brain-training exercises performed to nostalgic children’s songs.

For “Donguri Korokoro,” rotate your hands in circles and mimic swimming to match the lyrics.

For “Usagi to Kame,” move your body rhythmically with steps in place and a feet-apart motion.

For “Katatsumuri,” repeatedly make a fist with one hand and grasp that wrist with the opposite hand.

For “Zui Zui Zukkorobashi,” repeatedly insert the fingers of one hand into a teapot shape made with the other hand.

For “Antagata Dokosa,” step in place and clap your hands on the syllable “sa” that appears in the lyrics.

Take breaks as needed and don’t overexert yourself.

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yuri

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