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For Seniors: Festive Attractions to Liven Up Festivals—Games and Recreational Activities

We’re introducing games and recreational activities recommended for festivals at senior care facilities.

There are plenty of attractions that can be enjoyed while seated so that older adults can participate comfortably.

Activities like “goldfish scooping,” “target shooting,” and “lucky string pull” may bring back memories of festivals enjoyed in childhood.

Festivals are exciting events for both adults and children.

They can also spark communication with people you don’t usually interact with.

Use this article as a guide to plan a festival that allows seniors to have fun safely.

[For Seniors] Festive Attractions That Liven Up Festivals: Games and Recreational Activities (41–50)

Bingo game

A bingo game you can play with paper and pencil
Bingo game

A familiar sight at events: Bingo with fabulous prizes! While bingo usually uses a dedicated bingo machine, this version is played with paper and pencil.

First, draw two lines vertically and two lines horizontally on a sheet of plain copier paper to create nine squares.

Then choose nine numbers from 1 to 15 and write them randomly in the squares.

Once everyone is ready, decide the order, and have each participant call out one number at a time so they can aim to get bingo.

It’s also recommended for seniors, as it helps with finger exercises and mental stimulation.

Prepare some delightful prizes and have fun!

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[For Seniors] Festive Attractions to Liven Up a Festival: Games and Recreational Activities (51–60)

Takoyaki

Asakita Ward, Kameyama, day service, cooking club, takoyaki
Takoyaki

Speaking of festivals, takoyaki is one of the most iconic foods, isn’t it? Making and eating takoyaki together really heightens the festive mood.

The takoyaki griddle—so common in Kansai households that it’s no exaggeration to say everyone has one—can be easily purchased at electronics retailers or variety shops.

Chatting away while making takoyaki together also helps strengthen the bonds between participants.

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Cotton candy making

[Japanese Food Stall] Cotton Candy [Festival]
Cotton candy making

Many older adults probably remember eating cotton candy when they went to summer festivals as children! You’ll also see food stalls labeled “watagashi.” At summer festivals, it’s common to have the vendor make it for you.

But if you’re holding a summer festival at home or in a care facility, why not try making it yourself? Many people probably wanted to try it at least once when they were kids.

Nowadays, there are cotton candy machines that even children can use easily, so it’s simple to give it a try.

Be sure to take precautions so that older adults can enjoy it safely.

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Giant Menko

Today's activity at Day Service Asumiru
Giant Menko

Shall we try a giant Menko recreation game? Prepare several large Menko cards with different colors on the front and back, and set up a platform with point values written in the middle.

Throw the Menko onto the platform and compete for the highest total score.

You can not only knock your opponent’s Menko off, but also hit them to flip them over and change them to your color—that’s OK too.

Be careful not to let your own Menko get knocked off!

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In conclusion

We introduced games and recreational activities that liven up festivals at senior care facilities—what did you think? Since many of them can be done while seated, people who use wheelchairs can enjoy them with ease. Some older adults may give up on going to festivals because of the crowds, but festivals are one of the beloved traditions of summer that we want everyone to enjoy. The great thing about holding a festival at a facility is that participants can join at a relaxed pace. Let’s recall our childhoods and have a great time together!