As we age, it becomes increasingly important to keep our brains sharp and agile, and what better way than with brain games for seniors? Incorporating memory games for seniors into a daily routine can increase mental sharpness, improve memory, enhance focus, reduce stress, and lower the risk for dementia. Plus, these games not only promote cognitive function, but they also add an element of fun to your daily life. In this article, we collected the nine most popular free brain games for seniors designed to keep your brain agile and strong well into the golden years.
1. Crossword puzzles
Crossword puzzles are one of the most classic, timeless brain games for seniors. In one study, Harvard Health reported that people with mild memory problems showed improvement in cognition measurements and experienced less brain shrinkage thanks to crossword puzzles (compared to those who didn’t do crosswords).
Crossword puzzles are convenient and cost-effective because many newspapers and online platforms offer crossword puzzles as free brain games for seniors. The Washington Post is a popular platform for free daily crosswords, Sudoku, and more. AARP also hosts daily crossword memory exercises for seniors, including score rankings, so you can compete and play with others doing the same exercises.
2. Jigsaw puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles are excellent memory exercises for seniors to boost concentration and spatial reasoning. Research shows that jigsaw puzzling can even play a potential protective factor in cognitive aging. You can purchase physical jigsaw puzzles at local bookstores, department stores, or online retailers. Thrift stores are also a low-cost way to find puzzles and other brain games for seniors. You can also find free jigsaw puzzles online through websites and apps like TheJigsawPuzzles.com or Jigsaw Explorer.
3. Sudoku
Sudoku is a number puzzle that improves pattern recognition and trains logical and deductive thinking abilities. Some studies suggest that Sudoku can be used as a cognitive remedy for depression, apathy, and psychiatric disorders associated with damage to or shrinkage of the prefrontal cortex.
You can buy paperback books of Sudoku puzzles if you prefer to use a pencil, or you can find free Sudoku websites or phone apps. Sudoku.com is a convenient way to enjoy brain games for seniors anytime, anywhere.
4. Word searches
Word searches may seem like one of the simpler brain games for seniors, but they work different parts of your brain that other activities don’t. Word searches help develop word recognition, which promotes learning by expanding your vocabulary. They also help with pattern recognition and understanding context clues, boosting critical thinking skills. You can buy books of word searches or find free ones online with platforms like TheWordSearch.com.
We made the following fun word search for you to try out now!
(Find the answer key at the bottom of this blog.)
5. Memory card games
Memory card games like matching pairs are effective memory exercises for seniors. These games typically use a set of cards with words or pictures to help work your memory and stave off dementia-related disorders. You can purchase a physical memory card board game or find free digital options like HelpfulGames.com or MatchTheMemory.com. (MatchTheMemory even lets you create custom matching cards).
6. Mindful meditation
Mindfulness and gratitude exercises like meditation and deep breathing contribute to overall mental and emotional wellness. These activities enhance focus and memory, reduce stress, and slow cognitive decline. Some studies show meditation may promote better digestion and circulation, reduce risk of coronary artery disease, minimize headaches, strengthen sleep quality, and promote overall physical health. Find free meditations on YouTube or invest in an app like Calm.com for a more personalized experience.
7. Chess
Chess and other strategy brain games for seniors challenge critical thinking and decision-making skills. Research suggests that chess may be a protective factor against dementia, thanks to its many cognitive benefits. Chess.com and SparkChess offer free brain games for seniors to help improve your strategy skills.
8. Trivia quizzes
Trivia quizzes are incredible memory games for seniors, encouraging you to recall and apply your knowledge on various subjects. You can find themed quizzes that suit your specific interests or play general trivia to test your knowledge on a wide range of topics. Play trivia quizzes online through AARP or find trivia events at local senior centers, rec centers, or restaurants. When in doubt, host your own trivia night with your friends.
9. Word games
Word games like Scrabble and Boggle challenge your vocabulary and strategic thinking. These low-cost or free memory games for seniors can be done solo or socially, so they’ll work your brain and inspire your competitive spirit. PlayScrabble.com is a great online forum to play against the computer, against someone online, or even with a long-distance friend or relative.
More learning brain games for seniors
Along with these brain games for seniors, here are some other great ways to work your brain:
- Reading and book clubs
- Drawing, painting, crafting
- Cooking and baking
- Listening to music
- Learning how to play an instrument
- Learning a new language
- Learning a new technology
- Dancing, especially in a social setting
- Outdoor activities like gardening, fishing, bird watching, or nature walks
- Memory journaling
- Local or online workshops and classes
Finding local brain games for seniors
Many of these brain games for seniors are held locally, like jigsaw puzzle hobby groups, bingo night at the rec center, or mindful meditation classes. GoGoRides is a convenient, affordable option to get to and from nearby workshops and events, so you can have fun without the headache of driving there. All you have to do is call up GoGoRides and let our Guardians handle the rest. Learn more about GoGoRides here.
Brain games for seniors you can play right now
Incorporating logistics and memory games for seniors into your daily life will help maintain your cognitive health. There are a variety of brain games for seniors to suit your preferences, interests, and cognitive goals. Many of these activities are accessible and free, making them even easier to integrate into your routine.
And with GoGo Rides, you can get a professional to drive you to local events and activities – even while you do your crossword or Sudoku puzzle in the car on the way there. Register with GoGoGrandparent to get started.
Answer key to word search:
Photo Sources:
- Crossword Puzzle: https://unsplash.com/@rosssneddon
- Jigsaw Puzzle: https://unsplash.com/@melpoole
- Sudoku: https://unsplash.com/@bkaraivanov
- Word Search: made for you by GoGoGrandparent
- Mindful Meditation: https://unsplash.com/@dearseymour
- Chess: https://unsplash.com/@randyfath
- Word Games: https://unsplash.com/@brett_jordan
