As great as it is to get outside and enjoy the day, it’s just not always feasible. Some days the weather is stormy; other days, you just don’t feel like going out. Seniors with limited mobility or certain health conditions may also be limited in the amount of time they can spend outside. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun while inside. Below are some of the best indoor games and entertainment for seniors in independent living in Jacksonville.
Benefits of Indoor Entertainment for Seniors
Indoor games and entertainment are crucial for senior citizens. Not only do they prevent boredom, but they help keep your mind active and sharp. No matter what kind of games you play, you can reap benefits, such as:
- Improved focus
- Enhanced memory
- Better mood
- Heightened awareness
- Increased attention to detail
- More social interaction
Boggle
Boggle is excellent for senior citizens because it’s easy to set up, play, and clean up. It can be played alone or with friends and provides a fun but challenging mental exercise. Other word games like Scrabble, Scattergories, and Bananagrams have similar effects to Boggle and improve cognition.
Chess
Chess is a great strategy game for people of all ages and can be a great way to have some intergenerational fun. There is a slight learning curve, but it becomes a very cerebral game of strategy and planning once you are past that.
Card Games
You can pass the time with dozens of games when you have a simple deck of playing cards. When it comes to card games, there is something for everyone, including games such as:
- Gin rummy
- Solitaire
- Bridge
- Uno
- Spades
- Go fish
- Crazy Eights
- Pinochle
The only downside to card games is having to keep up with all of the cards. But that can become a game in and of itself!
Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles can be challenging to complete – but they also provide plenty of entertainment for an afternoon! They are also proven to reduce the risk of dementia and can even help patients already suffering from dementia. Unlike other games with winners and losers, everyone wins when you finish a jigsaw puzzle, and you are left with a sense of accomplishment and feeling proud.
Video Games
Video games aren’t just for the younger generations. Believe it or not, video games can be very beneficial for senior citizens. They provide unparalleled auditory and visual engagement and can improve reflexes and hand-eye coordination.
There are even several video games that claim to be “brain training.” These claims are often exaggerated, but they can still be a fun and engaging way to kill some time.
Jacksonville, Florida, Assisted Living
Many senior citizens choose to move to an assisted living facility once they start having memory issues. While not every facility specializes in memory care in Jacksonville, Florida, there are a handful that do.
Of course, you do not need to have memory issues to make the move to an assisted living facility. For senior citizens in Jacksonville, Florida, assisted living can be a way to take back your free time and live life how you want while also getting the healthcare you need.
