Word games may be just the thing to boost memory, problem-solving skills, and overall brainpower in seniors. Plus, with easy-to-use word game apps, mom and dad can enjoy these benefits anytime, anywhere, while staying connected with the family. A little friendly online competition is a great way to bond and might even settle who gets to pick the menu for the next family potluck!
We’re covering the best word game apps designed for seniors, the science behind their effectiveness, and tips for choosing the perfect app to keep your family member’s mind engaged and happy.
Top Word Game App Recommendations
Looking for ways to make screen time more engaging for your parents? Word game apps offer a fun and stimulating way for seniors to exercise their brains, expand their vocabulary, and connect with loved ones. Below is a curated list of 10 apps that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels.
Words With Friends
Connect with friends and family near and far for friendly competition in this Scrabble-like game. Words with Friends lets you build words on a crossword-style board and earn points for clever plays. Its social aspect makes it a great way to stay connected and have fun, though it can get a bit competitive. The app also includes some in-app purchases, but the basic gameplay is free. One unique feature is the chat function, allowing players to stay connected while they play.
Sudoku
Exercise your brain with Sudoku, a classic logic puzzle. This game involves filling in the grid so that each row, column, and 3×3 box contains all the numbers from 1 to 9. Sudoku improves logic and problem-solving skills and offers various difficulty levels. However, it can be frustrating for some and doesn’t involve much social interaction. The app includes helpful hints and tutorials for beginners, though.
Scrabble GO
The digital version of the classic board game, Scrabble GO lets you challenge friends and family to a word duel. It provides a familiar gameplay experience with the added bonus of tournaments and challenges. This app is perfect for testing your vocabulary and strategic thinking, but it does require a good vocabulary to excel. A unique “Teacher” feature can help you learn new words as you play.
New York Times Crossword
Tackle daily crossword puzzles from the renowned newspaper with the New York Times Crossword app. Puzzles range in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. These high-quality puzzles are great for keeping the mind sharp, but the app requires a subscription for full access, and some puzzles might be challenging for beginners. However, the app offers an extensive archive of past puzzles for endless wordplay opportunities.
Word Search
Relax and unwind with the classic word search game. This game involves finding hidden words in a grid of letters and is perfect for calming the mind. Word Search is easy to learn and low-pressure, making it great for visual learners. While it may be too simple for some, the app includes various themes and categories to keep things interesting.
Boggle With Friends
Race against the clock to find as many words as possible in a grid of jumbled letters with Boggle With Friends. Challenge friends or play solo to beat your own high score. This fast-paced, addictive game adds a competitive aspect to wordplay. While the time pressure may not suit everyone, the app includes fun power-ups to shake things up.
WordBrain
Solve word puzzles that gradually increase in difficulty with WordBrain. This app is great for expanding your vocabulary and spelling skills, offering a challenging but rewarding experience. Some puzzles require creative thinking, which can be frustrating at times, but hints are available for tricky puzzles.
Wordament
Go head-to-head with other players in real time to find the most words on a shared board. Wordament is a fun way to test your skills against others in this competitive and social game with quick rounds. It does require fast thinking and can be intense for some. The app features global leaderboards and achievements to track your progress.
SpellTower
Build the tallest tower of words you can by strategically stacking letters with SpellTower. This unique game combines word skills with spatial reasoning. SpellTower offers novel gameplay and is quite challenging, but it has limited social interaction compared to other games on this list. The app includes different modes for varied gameplay.
Word Cookies
Combine letters to create delicious word cookies in this delightful game. Word Cookies is a fun and relaxing game with colorful visuals and easy-to-learn gameplay. It may be too simple for some players, and it does offer in-app purchases, but the rewarding gameplay with a culinary theme is sure to delight.
Word game apps are not only fun but may also offer a cognitive boost. Encourage your parents or grandparents to explore these options and discover the perfect app to add some wordplay to their day.
Benefits of Word Games for Seniors
Beyond entertainment and an exhilarating way to burn the afternoon sun, word game apps can be a powerful tool for enhancing cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social connection in seniors. Let’s delve deeper into the specific benefits that word games offer.
Cognitive boost
Word games engage the brain in various ways, potentially improving memory, vocabulary, problem-solving skills, and attention span. Experts believe that engaging in mentally stimulating activities like word games may help maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Generally, keeping your mind engaged and active is brain-healthy. The key is to do it regularly.
If you’re looking for other ways to keep your parent’s mind active, check out our guides on memory games for seniors and memory board games.
Stress reduction and mood enhancement
Word games can provide a welcome distraction from daily worries, helping to reduce stress and improve mood.
Social connection
Playing word games with others, whether in person or online, fosters social interaction and strengthens relationships. Friendly competition can add an extra layer of fun and motivation.
Incorporating word games into your parent’s routine is a novel way to support the aging brain, just like getting regular exercise and eating a balanced diet.
Choosing the Right Word Game App
With so many word game apps available, finding the right one for your parents or grandparents can be overwhelming. Let’s simplify the process and ensure a positive experience.
Consider these factors when choosing a word game app:
- Skill Level: Start with games that match their current abilities and gradually increase the challenge as they improve. This ensures a sense of accomplishment without frustration.
- Interests: Does your family member enjoy trivia, puzzles, or word building? Choose games that align with their hobbies and interests to keep them engaged.
- Ease of Use: Look for apps with simple, intuitive interfaces and clear instructions. If they’re new to technology, this is also a great introduction to tech skills for seniors.
- Accessibility Features: For those with visual or hearing impairments, choose apps with features like adjustable font sizes, high-contrast displays, or audio cues.
- Variety: Word games come in all shapes and sizes. Explore different types like crosswords, Scrabble-like games, word searches, trivia, and vocabulary builders.
There are so many online games for seniors to play at home. But if they prefer the feel of a board game and the offline company of friends and family, board games and even a deck of cards are great brain exercises.
A Vibrant Lifestyle for Active Minds at 12 Oaks
At 12 Oaks, we understand that mental stimulation is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to cognitive well-being. Our communities offer a wide range of activities designed to engage the mind, body, and spirit.
From lively discussions and educational workshops to fitness classes and creative arts, residents have ample opportunities to stay active and connected. And yes, we even have dedicated game nights where word games are a favorite pastime!
We believe that a vibrant social life and a supportive community are key to maintaining cognitive health as we age. That’s why we strive to create an environment where residents can thrive and make meaningful connections with others.
Ready to see how 12 Oaks can enrich your parent’s life?
Download one of the recommended word game apps and give it a try with your family member today. Then, contact us to learn more about our vibrant communities and how we support the well-being of every resident.