Staying active after 60 can include more than physical movement. Games, books, movies, conversations, and new experiences can all bring variety and enjoyment to the week.
What do you do today to keep your mind active?
How much does keeping your mind sharp matter to you these days?
What's the main reason?
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You may be looking for yourself or helping a parent find something engaging. In both cases, the best activity is one that feels comfortable, interesting, and easy to continue.
So, what is genuinely worth doing after 60?
Brain Games Can Be Worthwhile - Without the Big Promises
Brain-game apps have not been shown to prevent dementia. However, they can be helpful in keeping adults active.
Crosswords, card games, puzzles, and app-based activities can offer an enjoyable challenge. They may also add variety to the day or create a reason to spend time with someone else.
The best game is usually one that feels interesting enough to play again. Think of games as one enjoyable part of an active life, not as treatment.
What Can You Do - or Suggest to a Parent - After 60?
There is no single activity everyone will enjoy. Some people like word games, while others would rather walk, read, watch a movie, or play cards with family.
The best approach is to offer a few specific choices and let the person decide what sounds enjoyable.
Add Movement to Something They Already Like
Physical activity does not have to mean going to a gym. Walking, gardening, dancing, stretching, or playing an active game can all add movement to the day.
The National Institute on Aging includes regular physical activity among the habits that may support cognitive health in older adults.
Try suggesting a walk along a different route, a trip to a local garden, or a simple game that involves standing and moving. Choose something that matches the person’s mobility and comfort level.
Choose Books That Invite Conversation
Reading gives the mind new characters, ideas, settings, and information to follow.
The book does not need to be long or difficult. Short stories, mysteries, biographies, travel writing, and books about a favorite hobby can all be good choices.
Ask what the person already enjoys instead of choosing something that feels like homework. You could also read the same book and talk about one chapter each week.
Turn a Movie Into a Shared Activity
Watching a movie can become more engaging when it leads to a conversation.
Choose a classic film, comedy, documentary, or familiar favorite. Afterward, talk about the characters, the ending, a favorite scene, or any memories the movie brought back.
The value is not in remembering every detail. It is in paying attention, sharing opinions, and connecting with someone else.
Online Web Game: AARP Games
For someone who prefers playing on a computer, AARP Games offers crosswords, word games, card games, strategy games, and other online puzzles.
Most games can be opened directly in a web browser, so the player does not need to learn an entirely new device. Start with a familiar option, such as solitaire or a crossword, before exploring something new.
Games should feel enjoyable rather than discouraging. If one game becomes frustrating, choose another instead of treating it like an obligation.
Ready to Play?
Browse crosswords, card games, word puzzles, and other online activities you can play directly in your browser.
Explore AARP Games →Mobile App Game: Impulse
For someone comfortable using a phone or tablet, Impulse offers short games and puzzles involving attention, language, mental math, and problem-solving.
Its shorter activities may suit someone who wants to play for a few minutes without sitting through a long game. However, the app includes optional purchases, so review its subscription terms before signing up.
The goal is to find activities the person enjoys - not to chase scores or feel pressured to maintain a daily streak.
What to Look for in a Game App
A good game can still be difficult to enjoy when the app surrounding it is confusing.
Before recommending an app to a parent or grandparent, check for:
- Large, readable text
- Buttons that are easy to tap
- Clear instructions
- Simple navigation
- Limited interruptions from advertisements
- Subscription terms that are easy to find
- Activities the person actually enjoys
Help with the initial setup if needed, especially when payment information or a free trial is involved.
The app should make the activity easier to enjoy. It should not create pressure through confusing scores, constant reminders, or unexpected charges.
A Simple Activity Plan for This Week
There is no need to begin five new habits at once. Choose one or two ideas that fit naturally into the week.
Open an online game
Try a crossword, solitaire, or word game on AARP Games.
Try a short mobile game
Explore one activity on Impulse and decide whether the format feels comfortable.
Take a different walk
If it is safe, follow a new street or visit another part of a familiar park.
Read something worth discussing
Choose a short story, article, or book chapter and share your thoughts with someone.
Watch a movie together
Afterward, talk about the characters, favorite scenes, or memories it brought back.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best games to keep your mind active after 60?
The best options are games you genuinely enjoy, such as crosswords, card games, word puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, or simple strategy games. Enjoyment makes it more likely that you will return to the activity regularly.
Can brain games prevent dementia?
No app or puzzle has been shown to prevent dementia. Games can still provide an enjoyable challenge, but they should not be treated as medical care.
Are crossword puzzles worthwhile for older adults?
Crosswords encourage attention, vocabulary, and problem-solving while offering an enjoyable challenge. Choose a difficulty level that feels interesting rather than frustrating.
How often should seniors play games?
There is no required schedule or perfect number of minutes. A short game a few times each week may be easier to enjoy and maintain than a strict daily routine.
What activities can help seniors stay sharp besides games?
Reading, learning something new, staying socially connected, moving regularly, sleeping well, and addressing hearing problems can all support an active and engaged life.
How do I choose a game app for an older adult?
Look for readable text, large buttons, clear instructions, simple navigation, and transparent subscription terms. Most importantly, choose activities the person actually enjoys.
