Technology can be a great bridge for older adults looking to stay mentally sharp, creative, and socially connected with families, friends, and loved ones.
One of the most accessible and easy-to-grasp technologies for older adults to explore is an iPad (or really, any portable tablet). Its large and customizable touch-screen and endless app options open up a world of opportunities for older adults to relax, learn, and have fun!
With so many available options on the market, we’ve curated a list of some of the top 10 user-friendly games and apps for your loved one to enjoy:
- Words With Friends
- Lumosity: Brain Training
- Jigsaw puzzle apps
- Colorfy
- YouTube
- FaceTime
- Solitaire
- Kitchen Stories
- Peak – Brain Training
- Spotify
No matter your loved one’s health status and support needs, you can tailor these games and apps to meet their wants and needs. From strategy games that help stimulate cognitive function to relaxing and mess-free art apps, there’s an app for everyone!
Words With Friends
This multiplayer word game is like Scrabble but digital and interactive. Older adults can play with family members, friends, fellow residents, or even make new friends online. It’s a great way to sharpen vocabulary skills and learn new words while enjoying some friendly competition.
Words With Friends allows players to play at their own pace, making it an ideal choice for those who like games but prefer a relaxed approach.
Lumosity: Brain Training
Lumosity is packed with brain-training games focusing on improving memory, attention, and problem-solving for people of all ages.
The app customizes activities based on users’ skills and progress. It challenges the brain in productive, incremental ways, which can help support memory care residents or older adults looking to stimulate their cognitive health.
Jigsaw Puzzle Apps
Digital jigsaw puzzles replicate the joy and accomplishment of completing a traditional puzzle, without the hassle of keeping track of physical pieces. Instead of tiptoeing around a work in progress, your puzzle stays safe!
Besides, puzzles engage problem-solving skills and spatial reasoning while being incredibly calming and relaxing.
Apps like Jigsaw Puzzles by Easybrain offer hundreds of puzzles at varying difficulty levels!
Colorfy
Colorfy is a digital adult coloring book that allows users to color intricate designs at their own pace. This app offers countless templates where users can share their completed work with family and friends.
It combines the relaxing process of coloring with the creation of unique art and designs without the mess, hassle, and clean-up of art supplies. Besides, art therapy has long been recognized as a great stress reliever.
For older adults who live in assisted living or memory care, digitized coloring makes art more accessible than ever. It’s also a great pastime for rehabilitation residents at Rehabilitation of Perrysburg. They can enjoy a break from therapy and exercise sessions while connecting with their creative side!
YouTube
YouTube is a great alternative to TV channels and streaming platforms. On YouTube, older adults can watch how-to videos, tutorials, and entertaining content catered to their hobbies, from gardening to painting or travel documentaries.
It’s a versatile and educational app that lets older adults explore their interests without limitations (well, except for the ads).
FaceTime
FaceTime is an Apple-exclusive video calling app that’s pre-installed on their devices. It’s a simple way for older adults to stay connected with loved ones, no matter where they live!
With video calling, older adults can actively participate in family events or friendly gatherings, offering a modern way to stay socially active and connected. It’s especially beneficial for older adults accessing our short-term stay program.
If FaceTime isn’t compatible with your tablet, WhatsApp is a great alternative. This popular messaging tool also offers video calling and is compatible with smartphones, Apple, and Android devices.
Solitaire
It’s hard to go wrong with a classic card game like Solitaire. Digital versions of this timeless game allow older adults to enjoy it, with features like adjusting card sizes and fonts for better visibility.
Kitchen Stories
Kitchen Stories is an inviting app filled with video tutorials and tips, perfect for those who love cooking, want to explore new recipes, or are interested in exploring a new hobby.
This app allows older adults to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with healthy recipes. Plus, it’s a fun way for families, friends, and fellow residents to bond through shared culinary exploration.
Peak – Brain Training
Similar to Lumosity, the Peak app focuses on training memory, mental agility, and language skills through creative games.
With over 45 exercises and progress tracking, Peak caters to a range of interests, making it an excellent choice for older adults wanting to learn new skills while supporting their cognitive health.
Spotify
Tap into nostalgia, explore new music, and catch up on podcasts with Spotify. This music-playing app makes it easy for older adults to access playlists, albums, and reminisce about their favorite songs from yesteryear.
If your loved one is an avid reader, Spotify’s premium plan offers audiobooks, allowing older adults to listen or read along. Plus, it’s a great way to keep on top of readings for their book club!
Besides, music can evoke powerful memories and emotions, which is why music therapy is a valuable support for those in memory care.
Balance Compassionate Care with Technology
It might sound odd to highlight how technology can support older adults’ well-being when so many people are glued to their smartphones, but it’s true! These apps and games can help stimulate cognitive function, help your loved one stay socially connected, and offer a low-pressure way to sit back, relax, and have fun!
With your support and guidance from our compassionate care staff, encouraging your loved one to explore these apps and games can make them more comfortable and confident with technology!
At Kingston Residence of Perrysburg, we believe in empowering older adults through meaningful, modern experiences. Schedule a tour of our senior living communities today to see how we nurture a vibrant and lively atmosphere for our residents!
