When you’re having fun, there isn’t room for fear, doubt, worry, loneliness or depression. The fun sweeps them all away, and, in the process, makes us healthier physically and mentally.
Seniors are staying home because of the COVID-19 pandemic because they are the most susceptible to serious consequences should they contract the virus.
It’s a double-edged sword—they are the most physically vulnerable, and they are most likely to feel the heavy effects of isolation and depression as they try to avoid becoming sick.
But don’t forget the fun.
Fun and Games
Thrillist enables users to download game apps for iPhone at the App Store and Android phones on Google Play. This article also lists explanations for several games, including Scrabble Go, UNO, and Yahtzee.
Words with Friends
This game, which is similar to Scrabble, is easy to learn and is available via an app for both Android and iPhone. Players compete against others in this crossword puzzle.
Card Games
CarzMania offers more than 25 multi-player card games for free. Games include:
- Canasta
- Euchre
- Hearts
- Spades
- Texas Hold ‘em
- Gin Rummy
- Crazy Eights
Even the game Solitaire can be played in multi-player formats.
Minecraft
Minecraft is a game where you explore and create your own unique worlds. Seniors can play online with their grandchildren.
Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw Puzzles.com has a huge collection of free online jigsaw puzzles that you can play with friends or jigsaw puzzle fans from around the world.
Chess
You can join a chess site that has nearly 37 million members, playing 5,000 matches a day. And if you’ve never played before, this site will teach you how and it is free.
For Your Online Safety and Wellbeing
A few suggestions when you are online:
- Don’t share passwords or personal information with anyone
- Create a username (and don’t use your real name!)
- Take time between games to walk around the house, drink some water, and perform mild exercises.
Time Well-Spent
Lest you feel guilty about having all this fun not doing things “more constructive,” games are beneficial for you. Studies have shown games not only improve mood and cognitive ability but contribute to better physical health as well. For example: playing video games that require fast decision-making and visual attention has been linked to enhancements in balance and walking ability.
And you won’t be out there lost in a sea of young people. Twenty-five percent of all “gamers” are age 50 and older. So, go online and have some fun.
For other tips and ideas to enjoy yourself during these times, check out the Health & Wellness section of our blog.
