Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, delicious food, and cherished family gatherings. For senior citizens, these moments are especially precious, and incorporating fun, engaging games can make the holiday even more memorable. These activities offer fantastic opportunities for connection, laughter, and mental stimulation.
This curated list offers some of the best Thanksgiving games for senior citizens, ensuring there’s something for everyone. We’ve gathered options that cater to various mobility levels, cognitive preferences, and group sizes. You’ll find everything from classic board games to lively group activities.
Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly fun or a premium entertainment experience, this collection has you covered. Each game is designed to enhance the festive spirit and create lasting memories. Dive in to discover the perfect additions to your Thanksgiving celebration this year.
—
1. Large Print Playing Cards
These oversized playing cards are a fantastic choice for any senior gathering. Their larger font and clear designs make them easy to read, reducing eye strain during extended play. They are perfect for classic card games like Rummy, Bridge, or Go Fish.
This budget-friendly option is ideal for those who love traditional card games but struggle with standard-sized decks. It ensures everyone can participate comfortably, making it a top pick for inclusive fun. Many sets even include card holders for easier gripping.
2. Jumbo Sequence Game
Sequence is a popular board game that combines strategy with a bit of luck. The jumbo version features an extra-large playing mat and bigger cards and tokens, making it highly visible and accessible for all players. It’s a fantastic game for groups.
This mid-range game is perfect for families wanting a strategic yet easy-to-learn option. It encourages friendly competition and keeps minds sharp, making it a great Thanksgiving game for senior citizens. The large components are a standout feature.
3. Senior Moments Trivia Game
This engaging trivia game is specifically designed with seniors in mind, focusing on nostalgic topics and general knowledge from past decades. It sparks wonderful memories and encourages lively discussion among players. It’s a great conversation starter.
It’s a budget-friendly way to bring back cherished memories and test knowledge in a fun, pressure-free environment. This game is perfect for those who enjoy reminiscing and sharing stories. The questions are thoughtfully chosen to be accessible and enjoyable.
4. Indoor Ring Toss Game
A classic carnival game, indoor ring toss offers gentle physical activity and hand-eye coordination practice. Many sets come with soft, weighted rings and sturdy pegs, making them safe and easy to use indoors. It’s simple to set up and play.
This mid-range option is excellent for a more active group who enjoys a bit of friendly competition without strenuous movement. It’s perfect for breaking up seated activities and adding some physical fun to your Thanksgiving day. The simple rules make it a quick hit.
5. Bean Bag Toss Cornhole Set (Mini Indoor Version)
This scaled-down version of cornhole is perfect for indoor play, requiring less space and gentler throws. It still offers the satisfying thud of a bean bag hitting the target, providing engaging fun for all ages. It’s a versatile game.
Great for those who enjoy a bit of light physical activity, this mid-range game can be played seated or standing. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a classic outdoor game indoors, regardless of the weather. Its portability is a key benefit.
6. “Tell Me Your Life Story” Guided Journal
While not a traditional game, a guided journal with prompts can be a wonderful, reflective activity for seniors during Thanksgiving. It encourages sharing personal histories and family anecdotes, which can be read aloud or kept private. It fosters connection.
This mid-range item is perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and sharing their life experiences with loved ones. It creates a beautiful keepsake and offers a unique way to bond across generations. The prompts make it easy to start writing.
7. Large Piece Jigsaw Puzzles (e.g., White Mountain Puzzles)
Jigsaw puzzles with larger pieces are ideal for seniors, as they are easier to handle and see. Brands like White Mountain Puzzles often feature nostalgic themes that resonate with older generations. They offer a relaxing, collaborative activity.
This mid-range choice is excellent for a calm, engaging activity that can be worked on individually or as a group throughout the day. It provides mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment. The vibrant images are often a highlight.
8. Scrabble (Large Print Edition)
The classic word game Scrabble gets an accessibility upgrade with larger print tiles and sometimes a rotating board. This modification makes it much easier for seniors to read and manipulate the letters, keeping the intellectual challenge alive. It’s a timeless favorite.
Perfect for word enthusiasts and those who enjoy a mental workout, this mid-range game encourages vocabulary and strategic thinking. It’s a top Thanksgiving game for senior citizens who love a good word challenge. The large tiles are a game-changer.
9. Bingo Game Set (Large Print Cards)
Bingo is a universally loved game that brings excitement and anticipation to any gathering. A set with large print cards ensures that everyone can easily follow along, even those with visual impairments. It’s easy to organize and play.
This mid-range game is fantastic for larger groups and guarantees lots of laughter and friendly competition. It’s a classic choice that appeals to almost everyone, making it one of the best Thanksgiving games for senior citizens. The caller can easily manage the game.
10. AARP The Magazine’s Brain Games for Seniors
This collection of puzzle books offers a variety of brain-teasing activities designed to keep minds sharp. It includes crosswords, word searches, sudoku, and other logic puzzles, all tailored for senior engagement. It’s a great individual or quiet group activity.
This budget-friendly option is perfect for those who enjoy a quiet mental challenge. It can be done individually or cooperatively, providing hours of stimulating entertainment. The variety of puzzles ensures there is always something new to try.
11. Jumbo Wooden Stacking Game (Jenga-style)
A larger version of the popular Jenga game, these oversized wooden blocks are easier to grasp and stack. It adds an element of suspense and lighthearted fun as players try to remove blocks without toppling the tower. It’s a tactile and engaging game.
This mid-range game is fantastic for encouraging fine motor skills and strategic thinking in a playful way. It’s a great choice for groups who enjoy a bit of suspense and laughter. The larger blocks make it much more accessible.
12. Magnetic Fishing Game
This simple yet charming game involves using magnetic rods to “catch” colorful fish. It’s excellent for improving hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, and it’s surprisingly relaxing. It’s a wonderful, low-stress activity.
This budget-friendly game is perfect for those who prefer calmer, more tactile activities. It can be played individually or with a few people, offering gentle entertainment. The magnetic action is always a delight.
13. Wooden Peg Solitaire
Peg Solitaire is a classic single-player logic puzzle that challenges the mind and encourages problem-solving. A wooden set offers a pleasant tactile experience and a timeless aesthetic. It’s a quietly engaging game.
This budget-friendly brain teaser is ideal for individuals who enjoy a solitary challenge or for those who want to pass the time with a thoughtful puzzle. It’s a great way to keep the mind active. The simple rules belie its depth.
14. Dominoes Set (Larger Tiles)
Dominoes are a classic game that offers both strategic depth and simple, repetitive pleasure. A set with larger, heavier tiles is easier for seniors to handle and see, making the game more enjoyable for everyone. It’s a versatile game.
This mid-range game is perfect for small groups and offers a variety of game modes, from simple matching to more complex scoring. It’s a timeless choice that promotes social interaction and strategic thinking. The durable tiles are a plus.
15. Conversation Starter Cards (e.g., “TableTopics” Family Edition)
These card sets contain thought-provoking questions designed to spark engaging conversations among family members. They are excellent for breaking the ice and learning new things about each other, fostering deeper connections. They encourage sharing.
This mid-range option is perfect for enriching the Thanksgiving meal or a relaxed evening. It’s one of the best Thanksgiving games for senior citizens who enjoy sharing stories and connecting on a personal level. The questions are varied and interesting.
16. Tabletop Giant Connect 4
The popular game Connect 4 gets an upgrade with a larger, tabletop version. The oversized pieces are easier to handle, and the bigger board is more visible, making this strategic game accessible and fun for all ages. It’s a visually appealing game.
This mid-range game is fantastic for a quick, strategic challenge between two players or teams. It’s easy to learn but offers enough depth to keep players engaged. The large size is a distinct advantage for seniors.
17. Yahtzee (Classic Edition)
Yahtzee is a beloved dice game that combines luck and strategy, challenging players to roll specific combinations. It’s a fast-paced and exciting game that can be played with a small group or individually. It’s a game of chance and skill.
This budget-friendly classic is perfect for those who enjoy the thrill of rolling dice and trying their luck. It’s easy to pick up and offers endless replayability, making it a reliable choice for Thanksgiving entertainment. The simple rules are a draw.
18. UNO (Giant or Regular Edition)
UNO is a fast-paced, colorful card game that’s easy to learn and incredibly fun for all ages. The giant version has oversized cards that are easier to hold and see, enhancing accessibility for seniors. It’s a lively, engaging game.
This budget-friendly game is perfect for bringing energy and laughter to any gathering. It encourages quick thinking and provides plenty of opportunities for playful mischief. UNO is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any holiday.
19. Memory Lane Trivia Game
Another excellent trivia option, Memory Lane focuses on pop culture, historical events, and everyday life from specific decades. It’s designed to evoke nostalgia and friendly competition, making it a hit for Thanksgiving gatherings. It’s a wonderful way to reminisce.
This mid-range game is ideal for sparking conversations and sharing personal memories related to the questions. It’s one of the best Thanksgiving games for senior citizens who love to recall the past. The topics are carefully chosen for broad appeal.
20. Roll-A-Story Dice
These unique dice feature images or words on each face. Players roll the dice and then create a story based on the results. It’s a fantastic creative exercise that encourages imagination and verbal expression. It’s a collaborative storytelling experience.
This budget-friendly item is perfect for fostering creativity and group interaction without any competitive pressure. It’s a wonderful way to tell funny or imaginative stories together. The simplicity makes it accessible for everyone.
21. Card Holders for Playing Cards
While not a game itself, a set of card holders is an invaluable accessory for seniors who enjoy card games. They allow players to easily organize and view their hands without struggling to grip multiple cards. They enhance comfort significantly.
This budget-friendly addition is perfect for making any card game more accessible and enjoyable for those with arthritis or limited dexterity. It ensures everyone can participate fully in the fun. They are a practical and thoughtful purchase.
22. Large Print Crossword Puzzle Books
Crossword puzzles are a timeless way to exercise the brain and expand vocabulary. Large print editions make them accessible to seniors, offering hours of quiet, stimulating entertainment. They are a beloved pastime for many.
This budget-friendly option is ideal for those who prefer a solitary or quiet activity that keeps their minds sharp. It can be a relaxing break from more boisterous group games. The clear print is a major benefit.
23. Wooden Labyrinth Maze Game
This classic game of skill and patience involves guiding a small ball through a maze by tilting a wooden board. It’s excellent for developing fine motor control, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. It’s a timeless challenge.
This mid-range game is perfect for those who enjoy a tactile and mentally engaging individual challenge. It offers a satisfying sense of accomplishment when the ball reaches its destination. The wooden construction is durable and attractive.
24. Indoor Soft Bocce Ball Set
A soft, lightweight bocce ball set designed for indoor use brings the joy of this classic game indoors. It’s a gentle activity that encourages light movement, strategy, and friendly competition. It’s a fun group game.
This premium (or mid-range, depending on quality) option is excellent for a more active group who enjoys a bit of light physical play. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a traditional game regardless of the weather. The soft balls are safe for indoor use.
25. Thanksgiving-Themed Mad Libs
Mad Libs are hilarious fill-in-the-blank stories that prompt players for nouns, verbs, adjectives, and more. A Thanksgiving-themed book adds a festive touch, resulting in uproarious and often nonsensical tales. It’s a simple, lighthearted activity.
This budget-friendly game is perfect for generating lots of laughter and silly fun. It’s a fantastic way to engage everyone, from grandchildren to grandparents, in a creative and humorous activity. The Thanksgiving theme makes it extra special.
—
Thanksgiving is all about connection, and these games provide wonderful avenues for family members of all ages to bond. From stimulating trivia and strategic board games to lighthearted physical activities, there’s truly a game for every preference. These top choices ensure everyone feels included and entertained.
You can’t go wrong with any of these excellent Thanksgiving games for senior citizens. Consider the interests and mobility levels of your family members to pick the best fit. Each option promises to add joy and memorable moments to your holiday celebration. We encourage you to check current prices and availability on Amazon to find the perfect additions to your festive day.
About the Author
I dig until I hit truth, then I write about it. Diane here, covering whatever needs covering. Rock climbing clears my head; competitive Scrabble sharpens it. My engineering background means I actually read the studies I cite. British by birth, Canadian by choice.
