Together
Hello Reader,
If you are in the sandwich generation or living in a multigenerational arrangement, you may be looking for fun and meaningful ways to support the older adults in your life. One of the best tools? Critical thinking activities and brain games for senior adults.
Statistics show that brain games enhance memory, problem-solving skills, mental flexibility, and concentration. Even better, they provide laughter, conversation, and multigenerational connections.
Types of Critical and Creative Thinking Activities
Puzzles
- Sudoku, crosswords, and jigsaw puzzles
Strategy games
Word games
- Scrabble, Wordle, Bananagrams
Creative outlets
- Learning a new musical instrument
- Painting, drawing, knitting
- Exploring a new language
Social activities
- Book clubs
- Game nights
- Debate clubs
- Family dinners
These activities are not just pastimes. They increase neuroplasticity, improve cognitive function, enhance mental flexibility, and support overall mental well-being. Most importantly, they bring people together.
Getting Started Without Overwhelm
Sometimes seniors hesitate to try something new because they worry it’s too complicated or that they’re “too old” to learn the rules. A gentle start makes all the difference:
- For games, pair a new player with an experienced partner.
- For creative arts, encourage any level of participation.
- Celebrate small wins, whether it’s finishing a short puzzle or learning a single new word in another language.
Remember, trying something new can be intimidating at any age. But once seniors experience the joy of learning and connection, their confidence grows.
Why It Works
Engaging in brain games for senior adults stimulates new connections in the brain, a process called neuroplasticity. This not only supports memory and problem-solving but also reduces stress and provides a sense of accomplishment. If the activity is social, it can prevent isolation and strengthen family or community bonds.
Family Fun That Spans Generations
At family reunions, we always have a puzzle table where everyone can join in. There are also some quiet moments spent together on old tavern puzzles. Talking, twisting the wire pieces of the Iron Heart, and coaching the younger ones.
While I’m not usually a fan of party games, we have had some stellar “Minute to Win It” competitions that mixed generations on teams. They created memorable moments filled with laughter. The younger generations were pretty impressed with the willingness of the great grandparents to participate!
Here are 10 games that seniors and kids can enjoy together:
- Uno
- Pictionary
- Tic Tac Toe
- Dominoes
- Scrabble
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Crosswords
- Beanbag toss
- Nature scavenger hunts
- Minute to Win It games
Another great option: table talk conversation cards. Print and cut them out, then leave them on the table to spark discussion. Add a twist by asking each person to share two reasons why when they answer. This not only promotes conversation but also exercises critical thinking. Get your free set of cards here or choose from additional question sets here.
Conclusion
Critical and creative thinking activities aren’t just about passing the time. They are about strengthening minds and building bonds. Whether it’s through puzzles, strategy games, or creative projects, brain games for senior adults offer benefits that ripple across generations. The next time your family gathers, try introducing one of these activities. You may be surprised at how much fun and connection they bring.
Note: There are computer app versions of many brain games. It’s certainly a way to challenge the brain, but it often lacks the social connections and interactions that bring so much joy.
Table talk: What games would you add to the list of games to play with seniors and kids? Would you rather play bean bag toss or Pictionary?
Read more here. https://www.tailorjoy.com/together/
Reader, I want you to smile more and sigh less. Choose to see the joy in life this week! Visit my website for more tips and tools to help you be ready for whatever the day may bring. www.tailorjoy.com
Got questions or comments? Hit "reply" and email me. I would love to hear from you, especially if you know of any brain games for seniors!
Jennifer
P.S. Whenever you are ready, Tailor Joy LLC can help you in 3 ways:
- Private online tutoring services: Jennifer specializes in grades 3-10 reading, writing, and study skills. She helps students build confidence and independence in their education. She also tutors adult ESL students in conversational English.
- Business Basics: How to start your own tutoring or coaching business. Affordably priced at $399 for educators who need some extra income, or anyone who wants to start their own tutoring, lessons, or coaching business full-time or part-time. Private coaching is also available.
- Educational resources: From study skills reference sheets to travel games to book club kit to a reading log. Nothing over $10. Click the link to shop.
Monthly Product Spotlight: SHOP ALL THE PRODUCTS IN ONE PLACE
All my products!
Whether you want printable art for your walls, my course on how to start your own tutoring/coaching business, conversation starters, educational resources, or freebies - it's all here! You can shop by category or just browse all the products. Click on the title to see a full product description.
Thanks!
Thanks for reading 2 Minutes Together! Forward this email to a friend or relative who you think would like it, and they can subscribe with this button below.
More Resources
Read: More about multigenerational livinghttps://tailorjoy.com/multigenerational-living/
https://tailorjoy.com/product-review-qwirkle/
|
|
Teacher. Tutor. Traveler. Tailor of joy.
Meet Jennifer Donaldson.
"I’m a wife, mom, grandma, and certified teacher offering private tutoring, business coaching, educational resources, useful printables, online courses, practical advice, and joy!"
|
#tailorjoy = intentionally seeing the joy in everyday life
