You’ve probably heard that phrase “use it or lose it.” As it turns out, it’s more than just a cliché.  Research confirms it’s true. 
So what are today’s seniors doing to keep mentally fit? Many have said goodbye to traditional games such as bingo. They’re gravitating more to group activities such as Scrabble® and bridge tournaments. According to the latest studies, it all helps.
And many seniors are even getting into the video age – playing computer games. For instance, Nintendo’s Brain Age™: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day features simple math and other activities. It’s received high marks from both older adults and researchers. And the company’s new Wii™ home video game system – which allows players to interactively compete in sports such as bowling and golf – is flying off the shelves. Seniors comprise a significant consumer market for this new video game; senior-care communities around the country are even hosting Wii tournaments. 
As many of you know, our local franchise cares for seniors, primarily in their homes. We’ve seen firsthand how mind games keep many aging minds young and vital. But there’s a problem that often surfaces to deter seniors from staying mentally fit. That’s lack of companionship – particularly for those older adults who live alone. 
Sometimes seniors just need a little encouragement and involvement from family, friends, or interested others to help them pursue interests that can keep their minds stimulated. Through games and puzzles, cards and music, local caregivers have seen lives change for many older adults throughout the community.
A mind-game activity can be as simple as talking about a news story with a senior, or playing a board game. Along these lines, some caregivers around the country are hosting bridge and Scrabble tournaments for seniors
Here are some suggestions to help seniors keep their minds active
• Computer Savvy Not Required: Even seniors who are intimidated by the computer still can play online and other computer games. Why not try to help them get started playing Solitaire or joining an online bridge game?
• Organize Game Night: Board or card games offer a great avenue for mind stimulation. Encourage your senior loved one to get a few friends together to join in the fun.
• The Magic of Music: Many seniors were avid musicians in earlier years and some may still have instruments in their homes. Ask them to play you a tune or challenge them to learn an instrument.
• Tournament Fun: Bridge and Scrabble tournaments for seniors are springing up around the country. Check with the local senior center to learn of any activities in your area.  Or encourage your older adult to join a bridge group.
• Think Big: Large-piece jigsaw and large-type crossword and Sudoku puzzles are great pastimes for seniors who need a mind-stimulating activity when they’re alone.
• Out and About: Most communities have concerts, lectures and other pursuits that can interest seniors and their families.  If your loved one is able to get out, consider activities such as these.
• In the News: Many seniors maintain their interest in politics and current events.  For their next birthday (or another special date), why not renew a subscription to a newspaper or popular news magazine.  Or, you can organize a news-discussion group.
• Just the Two of You: When it’s just you and your senior loved one, remember there are more things you can do than just watching television. For instance, Hasbro Inc. – the largest U.S. game company – has introduced three fast versions of classic board games this year: Monopoly® Express, Scrabble® Express and Sorry!® Express.  They don’t take long to play.
• Companionship Counts: Companionship is an important part of stimulating seniors’ minds. If your senior has no one to spend time with, consider hiring a companion.