Activities perfect for July for seniors: Introducing games and recreational options
When it comes to July traditions, Tanabata immediately comes to mind.
How about incorporating Tanabata-themed activities as a way to enjoy July? There are plenty of lively ideas, such as games inspired by Orihime and Hikoboshi and star-toss games.
In addition to games, we also introduce craft projects like bamboo decorations and tanzaku wish strips.
Working together on Tanabata-themed activities and crafts will warm everyone’s hearts.
Spend a joyful summer moment full of smiles together with older adults.
- [For Seniors] July Events: Recommended Recreation Ideas for Senior Facilities
- [For Seniors] Simple Recreational Activities You Can Enjoy While Seated
- [For Seniors] Enjoy July! Easy and Fun Snack Activities
- [For Seniors] Enjoy and Beat the Summer Heat! July Craft Ideas
- [For Seniors] Enjoy Summer to the Fullest! Fun Summer-Only Activities Introduced
- [For Seniors] Summer Haiku: Ideas to Feel the Season
- [For Seniors] Simple Tabletop Games: Fun and Engaging Recreational Activities
- [For Seniors] Refresh Your Mood! Lively, Get-Moving Games
- [For Seniors] Recreations to Experience in August
- [For Seniors] June-Themed Activities: Recommended Recreation and Game Collection
- [For Seniors] Fun Activities That Liven Up Cool Evening Festivals and Summer Festivals
- [For Seniors] Fun Brain Training! Lively Whiteboard Activities
- [For Seniors] Exciting Team-Based Recreational Activities
Snack Recreation (11–20)
Easy Hydrangea Jelly

Here’s a simple hydrangea jelly you can make by heating it in the microwave.
It’s perfect for a June snack activity.
Soften gelatin in milk with sugar or in water, then heat it in the microwave along with grape juice.
Pour the milk-based jelly mixture into containers and chill until set.
The key for the grape jelly mixture made with grape juice is to prepare it in a storage bag.
Lay it flat to chill and set, then tear it into pieces with a fork and place them on top of the milk jelly.
The grape jelly pieces, which look like dice cuts, resemble hydrangea petals.
Since you can make this without using a stove or knives, try making it together with older adults.
Blue Sky Jelly

Perfect for early summer! Let me introduce a beautiful blue-sky jelly with a refreshing look.
First, dissolve gelatin in the microwave, then add soda and blue shaved-ice syrup and mix well.
Be careful not to let too much carbonation escape.
Do the same with a mixture of a lactic-acid drink and milk: add gelatin and combine thoroughly.
Once set in the refrigerator, plate the jellies.
By layering the blue jelly and the white jelly alternately, you’ll create a beautiful dessert that looks like white clouds floating in a blue sky.
It’s also delicious topped with vanilla ice cream, if you like.
Snack activity: Tanabata jelly
https://www.tiktok.com/@tombowds_tsukuba/video/7393171431393152277In July, there’s an event called Tanabata.
Tanabata features legends about the Milky Way, Hikoboshi, and Orihime—stars and constellations that shine in the night sky.
Let’s try making a jelly inspired by Tanabata.
For the night sky, we’ll make a jelly using Blue Hawaii shaved ice syrup.
For the stars, it might be nice to add pieces of cut fruit.
Put the set jelly and fruit into cups, and it’s done.
Since it can be made while sitting at a table, many older adults should be able to participate.
Working together may also spark conversations with the people around you.
Peach compote jelly

Let’s make a refreshing-looking Peach Compote Jelly using peaches that are in season in July! Keeping the skin on, use a knife to score the peach as if you were halving it.
There’s a large pit in the center, so when your knife hits the pit, rotate the peach all the way around while keeping the blade against it.
This will let you remove the pit cleanly and easily.
Simmer the peach, skin on, for about 6 minutes, then remove the skin when you take it out of the pot.
Add gelatin to the remaining poaching liquid, chill in the refrigerator until set, and it’s ready.
This cute pink peach compote jelly is a treat that will help you enjoy and beat the summer heat!
Strawberry and banana gelato

For July’s snack activity, let’s make some refreshing gelato! The fruits we’ll use this time are strawberries and bananas.
Remove the stems from the strawberries and slice the bananas into rounds, then put them in a zipper bag and freeze.
Once slightly chopped, place them in a food processor with sweetened condensed milk and soy milk, and blend.
Adjust the taste by adding more soy milk and condensed milk while checking the consistency and sweetness.
When smooth, transfer to a container and chill in the freezer again until firm.
Serve the gelato with strawberries and bananas in a dish, and it’s ready.
If you warm your spoon or disher beforehand, it will scoop more easily.
Pineapple kanten (agar jelly)

Why not try making agar jelly using canned pineapple? Put sugar and the syrup from the can into a bowl, and divide the pineapple pieces among serving dishes.
Add powdered agar to the bowl with the sugar and syrup, pour in boiling water, and stir thoroughly.
Pour the agar mixture into the dishes with the pineapple, and once it has cooled slightly, chill in the refrigerator until set.
Since you’re using canned fruit, it’s easy to make—one of the best parts.
Summer can dampen your appetite, but this chilled, sweet pineapple agar jelly is sure to whet it.
Chilled Milk Mochi

Here’s how to make chilled milk mochi.
Prepare potato starch (katakuriko), milk, sugar, a bowl, a pot, and a food storage container.
Put the potato starch and sugar into the pot and mix well.
Next, gradually add the milk, letting it blend in, and cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly.
When the milk mixture thickens to a custardy consistency, reduce to low heat and continue heating for 2 minutes while stirring well.
Transfer the milk mochi to a food storage container whose inside has been moistened with water, then place the entire container in an ice-water bath for about 30 minutes to cool to room temperature.
Cover the milk mochi with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to set.
It’s also great served with fruit.
Assign roles and have staff provide support so everyone can participate and enjoy the activity together.



