[For Seniors] Fun and Engaging Recreational Activities in Nursing Homes
In this article, we introduce lively recreational activities for seniors to enjoy at day service centers and other care facilities!
Facilities offer many different types of activities every day.
We’ve gathered a wide variety—from ones that are great for lively group fun to those enjoyable for individuals or small groups—so please use this as a reference when you’re wondering, “What should we do today?”
Many activities can be enjoyed while seated, so everyone can participate and have fun together.
It can also be interesting to change the rules or add your own twists depending on the facility!
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[For Seniors] Fun and Engaging Recreational Activities in Nursing Homes (71–80)
Wobbly Beanbag Game

Create it by arranging everyday materials! Here are ideas for a wobbly beanbag game.
What you’ll use: beanbags, a plastic tray, and an empty plastic wrap core.
The great thing is you don’t need to buy special materials, so it’s easy to try! To set up, stand the wrap core upright on a table and place the plastic tray with the beanbags on top.
That’s it! Participants then take turns removing beanbags from the tray.
The unstable wrap core wobbles, adding a thrilling challenge!
Slipper Toss

A simple yet exciting game where you launch slippers with your foot! Here are some fun ideas for slipper launching.
Slippers are lightweight indoor footwear that are easy to slip on and off.
This time, let’s try a slipper-launching challenge that makes the most of those features.
All you need is a pair of slippers.
Try launching a slipper while seated.
The person whose slipper flies the farthest wins.
It could be fun to have everyone shout a countdown like “1, 2, 3!” to time the launch together.
Borrowed Item Race

Let’s take on the challenge with excitement! Here are some ideas for a “borrowing race.” Many of you may already know this as one of the most exciting events at a sports day.
This time, let’s try a thrilling borrowing race.
Set a table 10 meters from the starting line.
Place various items on the table along with lots that have the item names written on them, and you’re all set! Participants move from the starting line to the table, draw a lot, and search for the corresponding item.
Once they have the item in hand, they return to the starting line to finish!
Tossing balls into a small hole

Let’s try a ball-toss game using a cardboard box and colored balls! Here’s an idea where you aim and throw into small holes.
Normally, in a ball-toss game, you throw small balls into a tall basket and compete on how many you can get in.
This time, we’ll use a flat cardboard box and challenge ourselves to throw balls into small holes instead.
It’s a great way to build concentration and control.
If you don’t have colored balls, you can substitute with beanbags or balls made by crumpling up newspaper.
Flag-raising game

Listen carefully to the commands and try the flag-raising challenge! Here are some ideas for a flag-raising game.
In this game, you hold red and white flags and follow commands like “Raise red, lower white,” raising and lowering the flags accordingly.
It’s a simple yet classic game with unique rules that test your concentration and has been loved for generations.
Just tape cut construction paper onto straws or chopsticks to make the flags, and you’re ready to go! Even if you get tripped up, it’s great to keep the mood light and enjoy the challenge.
Balloon-popping race

A simple and fun recreation activity that older adults can join safely and that instantly boosts the sports day atmosphere.
Players use a soft stick to hit a balloon placed on a table and compete to see which team pops theirs first.
Participants can stay seated, so even those worried about their legs or back can enjoy it with confidence.
It’s important to choose a stick made from materials that won’t hurt if they accidentally hit someone, such as a rolled-up newspaper or sponge.
You can also customize it by using balloons in team colors or arranging for confetti to burst out the moment a balloon pops.
Spectators can share in the excitement with clapping and cheers, creating a strong sense of unity.
Balloon attraction

This event is perfect as a sports day recreation for seniors that can be enjoyed easily while seated.
Place a ring on the floor or on a table and set a balloon in the center.
Attach a long string to the balloon, and participants reel in the string to pull the balloon toward themselves.
It’s very safe and allows anyone to take part without strain, which is part of its appeal.
The excitement builds as the balloon gets closer.
The person who catches the balloon first wins, and making it a team competition creates a sense of unity in the venue.
It’s also recommended to try using red and white balloons for the respective teams.


