Key Takeaways at a Glance
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Modern Brain Training: Computer games aren’t just for the grandkids. They are an excellent, accessible way for seniors to stimulate their minds and slow cognitive decline.
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Digital Versions of Classics: You don’t need to learn complicated new rules; many seniors enjoy digital versions of familiar games like Scrabble, Sudoku, and crosswords.
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Cost Awareness: While many games are free, it is important to be aware of “in-app purchases” or hidden fees to unlock extra features.
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Accessibility: These games can be played on smartphones, tablets, or computers, making them a convenient hobby whether you are at home or sitting in a waiting room.
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Mental Health Benefits: Beyond just fun, gaming provides mental stimulation that can prevent boredom, improve mental health, and even offer social connection if played online.
Everyone, young and old, loves to play games! Think ‘games for seniors’ and images of bingo halls and jigsaw puzzles probably come to mind. On the other hand, think ‘computer games’ and you’re unlikely to imagine the person sitting behind the computer, headphones attached, and rapidly tapping away at the keyboard is a senior citizen!
Download our ultimate activity list for Australian Seniors
However, thanks to the advance of the internet, these two worlds collide in spectacular fashion with computer games for senior citizens! In recent years, computer games have moved away from being the dominion of younger people and towards being a thrilling and popular activity for older people. From desktop and laptop computers to handheld mobile devices, computer games are to be found in the homes and palms of people of every age these days.
With the sheer number of computer games available online and on your devices, it can be a little overwhelming trying to find a suitable one. Here, we uncover some of the top computer games for senior citizens and how to find and play them.
Word and number games
Once upon a time you’d play word and number games like Scrabble, crosswords, sudoku and the like, on paper or as a board game. However, since the advent of the internet, many of these games are available online, meaning they can be played anywhere at any time. It also means that you can up the stakes by playing against competitors from all around the world! Finding these games is as easy as typing in the name of the game (Scrabble, sudoku, crossword puzzles, etc.) into your phone or tablet’s app store and choosing one that looks good.
With all computer and mobile games, it’s important to keep an eye on any hidden fees. Many of the games are free to download and play, but might charge a small amount to progress to new stages or unlock certain features. It’s worth knowing that, if you’d prefer not to spend money on these games, there are almost limitless entirely free versions – so you won’t need to spend a cent. Word and number games can be great fun, of course, but they can also be an excellent way to improve brain health and memory; exercising the mind to reduce or slow cognitive decline, improve cognitive abilities, prevent boredom, improve mental halth and provide mental stimulation.
Senior’s Recreation Guide – get your free copy now!
Fun puzzle games
Puzzle games have come a long way since the puzzle books days, and make great computer games for seniors of all ability levels. Many of them involve completing everyday tasks like the grocery shopping, or designing a cake, but in an easy and fun game format. If you or your senior loved one is experiencing reduced mobility or cognitive ability, there are a variety of games to suit, which are not only entertaining, but good for the brain.
Brain games
We’ve covered a lot about brain games in our recent blogs here at Care For Family because these games are not only great fun, but as the name suggests, they’re excellent for the brain. As we get older, stimulating our brains to improve memory, slow cognitive decline, and keep our minds active is incredibly important. Read our recent article on Brain Games for Seniors for a variety of brain games, including offline and online versions.
Computer-based brain games, including mobile phone compatible versions, are growing in popularity all the time, and there are countless options available. We love brain games like Brain Training, Elevate, and Lumosity, which are specifically designed to test and improve certain areas of the brain and allow you to track your progress and see how you’re getting on. Simply search for these games’ names, or search the term ‘brain games’ on your mobile device or computer and before you know it, you’ll be giving your brain a workout and having a good time too.
Computer games are no longer just for the kids! Computer games for senior citizens are a huge amount of fun, and best of all, can be played almost anywhere and at any time. They are great for playing alone and keeping the mind active, or played online against other players for a more social activity.
These are just a few of the examples that we love at Care For Family, but you might like to consult with your Care For Family care assistant or friends and family members for more great ideas. Younger loved ones may also love to help you or your senior loved one learn how to play some of these games, and find a new shared interest together. After all, you’re never too old or too young to have fun!
Senior’s Recreation Guide – get your free copy now!
Frequently answered questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need a powerful computer to play these games?
No. Most word, number, and puzzle games are very simple and run perfectly on standard laptops, tablets (like iPads), or smartphones.
2. Can these games really help my memory?
Yes. “Brain training” games are specifically designed to exercise cognitive abilities, helping to improve memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
3. Are there free games available?
Absolutely. App stores are full of free versions of Sudoku, crosswords, and brain trainers. Just look for the word “Free” or “Get” when downloading.
4. Is it hard to learn how to play on a tablet?
Most games designed for seniors are user-friendly with large buttons and simple instructions. Family members can also help get you set up.
5. Can I play with my friends?
Yes. Many games, like online Scrabble (Words with Friends), allow you to play against family members or friends remotely, keeping you socially connected.
