![[For Seniors] Enjoy Summer to the Fullest! Fun Summer-Only Activities Introduced](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/rXxvpt8uqnw/maxresdefault.webp)
Here are some recreational activities and games for older adults to enjoy the hot summer.
When the heat is intense, going out can be difficult, right? Many seniors probably think, “I still want to make the most of summer!” In this article, we’ve gathered games you can enjoy indoors as well as recreational activities that incorporate classic summer traditions.
If you’re looking for summer recreation ideas for senior facilities such as day-service centers, please use this as a reference!
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- [For Seniors] August Health Tips: How to Enjoy and Stay Comfortable During the Hot Summer
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[For Seniors] Enjoy Summer to the Fullest! Introducing Fun Summer-Only Activities (1–10)
Pinball with a cup
Let’s make holes in a cardboard sheet and enjoy a pinball-style game.
It’s an arcade game that was popular from the 1970s to the 1980s.
You flick the ball and score points by hitting various mechanisms on the playfield.
Create features by cutting holes in the cardboard and standing up and gluing paper cups.
Tilt the cardboard that serves as the playfield and roll a ping-pong ball.
The player who has more ping-pong balls remaining in the basket set at the lower end wins.
The more holes you make in the cardboard, the higher the difficulty, so adjust the number accordingly.
With a design reminiscent of a nostalgic game from the past, it’s likely to be a hit with seniors as well.
Clam-Digging Game
When we think of clam digging, spring is the peak season, but apparently you can actually do it year-round.
That said, it can be difficult for older adults to get to the beach.
So, how about enjoying clam digging indoors using newspaper to mimic sand and the shells of clams you’ve already eaten? Just hearing “clam digging” makes everyone picture the sea, so it might even take the edge off the summer heat! Here’s how to play: line a large cardboard box with strips of newspaper cut lengthwise and hide the shells inside.
At the start signal, use a hand rake to dig up the shells.
Whoever finds the most shells within the time limit wins!
Beach ball game
This “Beach Ball Battle” uses beach balls for a summery twist and can be enjoyed indoors.
Prepare 4–5 beach balls, some beanbags, and vinyl tape to divide the court.
Throw the beanbags to knock and roll the beach balls.
It’s easy to set up, so it’s great fun for older adults.
Tip: Don’t inflate the beach balls too much so they don’t roll too far!
Bug-catching game
When you think of summer, many people probably remember playing by catching bugs.
If you’re looking for a summer recreation game, a bug-catching game is a great choice.
In this game, you attach magnets to the backs of papers with pictures of insects, then catch them using a net with a magnet.
You can make it even more fun by drawing the insect pictures yourself.
Paper Cup Shooting Game
Shooting games have long been a staple at summer festivals and food stalls.
Many seniors likely enjoyed them in their childhood too.
Let’s try a simple paper-cup shooting game that lets you enjoy that experience as a casual game! All you need are paper cups, balloons, and ping-pong balls.
Cut out the bottom of a paper cup, stretch a balloon—tied at the mouth with the tip cut off—over the opening, and secure it with tape.
That’s it! Put a ping-pong ball inside, pull back on the tied end of the balloon, and release—the ball will shoot out with a burst of speed! It’s easy to enjoy even for those with a weaker grip.
Karaoke Contest
The “karaoke contest,” a popular summer recreation activity for seniors, is a fun event that lifts both mind and body.
Humming nostalgic kayōkyoku and enka brings back memories and naturally spreads smiles.
Singing deepens breathing, which can help improve cardiopulmonary function and support overall health.
The time spent waiting for one’s turn and clapping along to the rhythm also spark interaction, wrapping the entire venue in a warm atmosphere.
It’s a summer moment that brings the whole facility together—enjoyable for both participants and those who simply listen.
Yo-yo fishing
Here’s an idea for “yo-yo fishing,” perfect for summertime recreation.
In this simple game, you hook and lift colorful water balloons floating in a tub using a hook instead of a fishing hook.
It helps stimulate upper-limb movement—from fingers to shoulders—as well as concentration.
It’s also appealing because anyone can enjoy it safely, whether standing or seated.
Beyond the joy of a successful catch, it’s sure to spark lively conversations with other participants watching.
This popular activity lets you enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional summer festival and is ideal for creating summer memories.