Playing card games is a perfect activity for older adults because it’s inexpensive, they can sit comfortably, and it’s a fun way to pass the time! Card games can also give caregivers time to do other things while others are happily occupied. Here's a few card games to introduce to your friends and family!
Card Games Can Be Great for Brain Health
A simplified game of 21, also known as Blackjack, is a great card game for older adults. We’ve made a few changes to the standard rules to make playing easier and more fun. Our version is perfect for people with mild cognitive decline.
Adding up the cards forces an older adult to do math in their heads, exercising their brains. Shuffling, dealing, and moving the cards around exercises fingers and hands. They also have to use judgment to make decisions about whether or not they want another card.
A Modified Game of Blackjack is Fun for All
A standard deck of playing cards with Jokers removed.
21 or Blackjack – 1 player version
The goal of this game is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over. Playing 21 by yourself might not seem very exciting to you, but some older adults find it entertaining.
How to play with 1 person
- Deal 2 cards to yourself.
- If the points are greater than 21, you “busted” and you lose that hand.
- If the points are less than 21, you can stop there or decide if you want to try your luck by drawing additional cards.
21 or Blackjack – 2 player version
The goal of this game is also to get as close to 21 as possible without going over. To make things more exciting, you can place simple bets on whoever wins the hand. For example, whoever wins gets 1 penny. At the end of the game, you can see who has the most pennies!
How to play with 2 people
- Deal 2 cards to each person using the “one for you, one for me” method.
- Each person decides if they want additional cards or not.
- Compare cards to see who wins – whoever is closest to 21 without going over is the winner.
Special Cards Are Available for Those With Shaky Hands
If poor vision or shaky hands are getting in the way of enjoying a card game, try these inexpensive aids:
- Large-size playing cards – here are a few options
. - Large print or large font playing cards – here are a few options, they’re mixed in with large-size cards.
- Easy grip or hands-free card holder – here are some options.
Recommended for you:
— Easy Card Games for Older Adults: Go Fish
— Activities for Seniors: Puzzles!
— 12 Ideas + Tips for Fun Holiday Activities with Seniors
About the Author
Connie Chow
Connie was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also knows how important support is — especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
