Tag. Duck, Duck, Goose. Kick the Can. Simon Says. Play may be the work of children but it’s also good for adults. Research shows that playful activities support emotional well-being, cognitive engagement, creativity, social connection, and even physical health for young and old alike. During the International Day of Play (Jun 11), it is worth remembering that joy, curiosity, and lightheartedness remain important at every age.
Play is more than entertainment. Studies have found that socially and mentally engaging activities may help support cognitive health and emotional resilience in older adults. Specifically, playful activities can help:
Playful activities and leisure engagement are also linked with higher life satisfaction and lower levels of loneliness among seniors. And because familiar games often carry emotional meaning, they can reconnect people to positive memories, family traditions, and early life in ways that feel comforting rather than clinical.
Many childhood games can be adjusted to make them easier, safer, and more enjoyable for older adults while still preserving the spirit of the activity. The goal is to make them welcoming, inclusive, and fun for everyone involved. Some simple adaptations include:
When older adults feel comfortable and included, play becomes something shared rather than something performed for them. Here are three adapted childhood games for intergenerational participation.
What you need: A balloon, chairs, and an open space
How to play: Players sit across from one another and gently tap a balloon back and forth, trying to keep it from touching the ground. For larger groups, a ribbon or string can act as a “net” across the room.
Senior-friendly twist: The balloon moves slowly, giving players more reaction time and reducing physical strain. Seated play improves accessibility for individuals with mobility or balance concerns.
Why it helps: Balloon volleyball encourages gentle movement, hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and laughter while remaining low-impact and adaptable for different ability levels.
What you need: Simple bingo cards with familiar categories such as foods, songs, places, holidays, or hobbies
How to play: Instead of simply marking spaces, players share a short memory or story connected to each square before covering it. For example, landing on “summer vacation” may prompt someone to describe a favorite childhood trip.
Senior-friendly twist: There is no need to rush or keep score strictly. The focus shifts from competition to storytelling and connection.
Why it helps: This version supports memory recall, conversation, emotional connection, and intergenerational sharing while keeping the familiar structure of bingo intact.
What you need: Simple written or picture clues and small meaningful objects or treats
How to play: Create a short treasure hunt around the home or living space using easy-to-follow clues. Clues can involve memories, favorite songs, family photos, or familiar objects. For example: “Find the place where morning coffee is enjoyed” or “Look near something blue.”
Senior-friendly twist: Players can complete the hunt seated, with caregivers or family members bringing clue options to them if mobility is limited. Picture clues or verbal hints can also support individuals with memory changes.
Why it helps: Treasure hunts encourage curiosity, cognitive engagement, problem-solving, and movement while creating opportunities for teamwork and positive interaction.
Some of the best play experiences happen between generations. Grandchildren, neighbors, caregivers, friends, and older adults often discover that simple games create natural ways to spend time together without needing complicated plans or long conversations. Play strengthens communication, emotional connection, and learning across all age groups. Intergenerational activities may also help reduce age-related stereotypes while building empathy and understanding by:
Often, the moments people remember most are the unexpected ones: laughing at a missed catch, changing the rules halfway through, or sharing stories that happen naturally during play.
Caregivers can help create playful experiences that feel respectful and empowering rather than forced. The key is to approach play as shared enjoyment, not therapy disguised as fun. Helpful strategies include:
At Home Care Assistance, we know meaningful aging includes opportunities to laugh, connect, and continue exploring the world with curiosity. Play may look different over time, but its ability to bring comfort, confidence, and companionship can remain lifelong.
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Sources: CFTE: Frontiers in Human Neuroscience; NCOA; Healthy Aging CORE Alberta