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Online games can give older adults an enjoyable way to play, connect with other people, exercise, or take part in structured mental activities. Some research suggests benefits for specific groups and interventions, but it does not show that ordinary games prevent dementia or reliably reduce loneliness. The best choice is the one that fits a person’s interests, access needs, and comfort with the format.
Are online games good for seniors?
They can be worthwhile for enjoyment and may support particular goals, but “online games” covers very different activities. A casual game shared with family, a structured cognitive-training program, and a step-goal activity program are not interchangeable. Evidence about one type should not be treated as proof that all games produce the same effects.
Research on serious games is promising for some older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease, while a small social-game pilot did not find a change in loneliness. A separate trial found more walking in a specific program that paired step goals with game-like rewards and support. These findings do not establish that commercial games prevent dementia, treat depression, or improve health for every older adult.
What research has found
Cognitive and serious games
A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis examined 14 randomized controlled trials published from 2017 through 2023, involving 714 older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or MCI. The game groups included 374 participants and the control groups 340. The review reported statistically significant improvements in measured cognitive ability, daily behavioral capacity, and depression outcomes. The authors also cautioned that the evidence was limited by the small number of trials, small sample sizes, and low-quality pooled evidence. These results concern clinical populations and studied serious-game interventions; they do not show that everyday leisure games have the same effects. Read the JMIR Serious Games review.
#1 Best Overall
- Contains hundreds of zany lists to test your memory but first you have to find your lost keys
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Serious games can include cognitive training for abilities such as memory and executive function, sports or exercise games, biofeedback activities that use body sensors, and computerized cognitive behavioral therapy games. These are broad categories, not a verified list of consumer products or a guarantee that a given game is clinically effective.
Social games and loneliness
A small Netherlands pilot studied PhotoSnake, a mobile group game in which 15 older adults exchanged photos and text. Each photo was connected to the last letter of the object in the previous photo. Participants appreciated meeting in person during workshops, but the study found no change in loneliness. Some played for only a few days, and some felt the game did not offer enough variety to sustain interest. The authors noted that in-game exchanges could feel too superficial to create meaningful connection. This exploratory pilot cannot establish what social games will do for other people. Read the PhotoSnake pilot study.
Rank #2
- Laugh-and-learn memory challenge: A fast, verbal memory card game where you hear a list of words or actions and try to repeat or perform them—perfect for “remember the list” fans.
- Travel ready: Compact, pocket-size travel card game with 46 memory cards plus instructions—easy setup, no board, quick play anywhere (car, airplane, camping, or game night).
- Simple to start, hard to master: One point per correctly recalled item; reach the point goal to win. Ties trigger a head-to-head recall showdown for a satisfying finish.
- Fun for adults, families, and small groups: Great party card game for adults, couples card game, or family memory game that doubles as a light brain teaser and listening skills game.
- Playful senior-themed humor: A pop-culture-sprinkled, senior moments travel edition that winks at “not remembering” tropes while delivering a genuine memory challenge.
Game-like activity and walking
The 2024 STEP 4Life randomized trial studied adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, with a mean age of 70. Over 12 weeks, both groups set step goals and received feedback; the intervention group also used a behaviorally designed points-and-levels game reinforced by a support partner. The intervention group had a 1,699-steps-per-day greater change in mean daily step count than the control group (95% confidence interval: 1,149–2,249). This is evidence about that supported step-goal program, not a general finding that entertainment games increase exercise or prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The trial authors called for larger, longer studies. Read the STEP 4Life trial.
Online conversations are not games
The National Institute on Aging described I-CONECT, a study in which socially isolated older adults had regular, structured 30-minute video conversations with trained conversationalists. The conversations were designed to stimulate brain regions associated with memory, executive function, and abstract thought. This offers adjacent context about structured online interaction, but it is not evidence that gaming has the same effects. Read the National Institute on Aging summary.
Rank #3
- CLASSIC SINGLE PLAYER CHALLENGE: Enjoy the timeless fun of a solitaire game designed for strategic thinking. Players jump pegs across the board to remove them one by one, creating a satisfying mental challenge and making it one of the most enjoyable solitaire games available.
- ENTERTAINING FOR ADULTS: Designed as engaging solitaire games for adults, this puzzle encourages planning and patience. It’s a great tabletop activity for relaxing moments while still providing the challenge expected from classic solitaire games.
- GREAT FOR QUIET THINKING TIME: Ideal for players who enjoy focused entertainment. This brain teaser is perfect for solitary games for adults, helping improve concentration and logic skills while offering a rewarding strategy experience.
- PERFECT FOR SENIOR PLAYERS: A simple yet stimulating puzzle that works well as solitaire games for seniors. The clear layout and easy-to-handle pieces also make it a great solitaire game for seniors looking for relaxing brain exercise.
- PORTABLE SOLO PUZZLE GAME: Take this compact puzzle anywhere. It works well as travel solitaire games and even resembles handheld solitaire games for adults, making it convenient for trips, waiting rooms, or quick mental breaks.
What kinds of online games can older adults try?
Casual social games
These may suit someone who wants a low-pressure way to play with friends or family, exchange photos, or keep a conversation going. A game can provide a reason to interact, but turns or messages alone may not feel meaningful. Pairing play with a phone call, conversation, or in-person visit may make the social element more personal.
Cognitive or serious games
These offer structured activities designed around mental skills or other defined goals. They may appeal to someone who enjoys puzzles or guided challenges. The clinical evidence applies to specific interventions studied in people with MCI or Alzheimer’s disease; it does not establish that a commercial “brain game” prevents dementia or substitutes for clinical care.
Rank #4
- Perfect Memory Care Dementia Activities for Seniors: Looking for a thoughtful way to engage and stimulate the elderly loved ones in your life? This matching picture game is designed to serve as an excellent memory care activity for seniors, including those with dementia and Alzheimer's. The set comes with 5 boards featuring 37 visually stimulating cards across various themes such as flowers, trees, ocean life, pets, and birds.
- Age-Appropriate Acitivites for Adults with Dementia: Say goodbye to boring or childish dementia products for elderly adults. Our cards are age-appropriate and feature vibrant, high-resolution images that captivate the eyes and the mind. The lively colors and intricate designs will not only keep seniors entertained but also engage their memory and cognitive functions.
- Thick, Easy-to-Hold Cards: Unlike traditional paper-based Alzheimers products and memory games for adults, our matching picture cards are designed to be thick for easy handling. This is a game changer for elderly seniors who may have issues with grip or tactile sensitivity. The quality construction ensures the cards are easy to pick up and place, making it a stress-free and enjoyable memory game for seniors with dementia.
- Innovative Design for Frustration-Free Play: Each board in the set features a specially designed dent to securely hold the matching cards in place. This prevents the cards from shifting or falling over during gameplay, making it easier for seniors to concentrate on the activity rather than worrying about the setup.
- Flyers and Alzheimers Activities Book Included: In addition to the matching card game, the set also includes 5 flyers filled with conversation prompts and fun facts related to each theme. Plus, our 45+ activity ideas book will keep the fun going, offering various ways to engage with the cards and boards.
Movement games and game-like activity programs
These incorporate movement or activity goals and may appeal to people looking for a more active format. The strongest example in the cited evidence is a step-goal program with feedback, points, levels, and a support partner—not a general video game. Physical demands vary, so choose a format that fits the player’s mobility and comfort; the cited studies do not provide individualized exercise-safety guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to choose a game that fits
Rather than rely on a ranked list of titles, assess the actual game and how the player wants to use it. Availability and compatibility can vary by country, device, and platform.
Best Value
- 🛠️ People with dementia frequently sit for long periods of time with nothing to do. The memory games for seniors are crafted to help support cognitive function while gently improving dexterity and fine motor skills. These alzheimers activities rescue dementia patients from boredom, and nurture meaningful accomplishment moments between you and those you cherish most.
- 🧠Perfect for adults with cognitive decline, these wooden puzzles are tailored to keep the brain ticking over. These low vision activities deliver endless hours of brain-teasing fun. It´s NOT recommended for ADVANCED STAGES of the disease.
- 🎯 The board is 6.1 x 6.1 x 0.5 inches, and 24 bright and eye-catching pegs are easy to pick up for people with dementia. Handling the fidget toy helps senior citizens improve dexterity and range of motion, while the familiar feel and sound of the pieces can spark comforting memories.
- 🎲 This matching game is an excellent activity for focus, critical thinking and memory skills while having fun! Simply corresponding and trying to remember the colors of the pieces keep players entertained for long periods. It accommodates 2-6 players with multiple gameplay variations, perfect for caregivers and family’s members of varied ages having to be together for holiday.
- Our thoughtfully designed cognitive puzzles and board games are age-appropriate and recommended age is 13+. These activities for elderly are in discreet and dignified packages without any mention of dementia or Alzheimer’s. A smart, heartfelt gift that helps seniors with parkinsons feel a sense of enjoyment, satisfaction, and accomplishment, because every moment matters.
- Ease of learning: Look for understandable instructions and controls that feel comfortable to use.
- Readability and accessibility: Check whether text, menus, and visual cues are easy for the player to see and interpret.
- Social format: Decide whether the player prefers solo play, shared play, or a game that helps prompt conversation with someone they know.
- Physical demands: Check whether the game requires standing, reaching, walking, or other movements, and whether those demands suit the player.
- Privacy and accounts: Review what registration is required and what information or interactions the game makes public.
- Device and cost: Confirm that the game works on an available smartphone, tablet, or other device, and check any purchase or subscription terms before starting.
- Help getting started: Consider whether a friend, relative, or in-person introduction would make it easier to learn and keep playing.
Does an older adult need a new device?
Not necessarily. Some mobile social games can be played on a smartphone or tablet. In the PhotoSnake pilot, researchers supplied tablets to participants who lacked the means to obtain a device, so the study does not imply that players must buy new hardware. Start by checking whether a game works on a device the player already has.
Quick Recap
How to set realistic expectations
- Choose a game because it seems enjoyable or fits a specific interest, not because it promises to prevent dementia or treat a health condition.
- Treat social play as an opportunity for interaction, not a guaranteed remedy for loneliness.
- Distinguish research on clinical serious games or supported activity programs from evidence about ordinary commercial games.
- If a game’s physical demands are unclear or concerning, choose a less demanding format and seek appropriate health guidance rather than assuming it is suitable.
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