If you’re over 65 and trying to keep your brain active, you’ve probably been told to do crossword puzzles or jigsaw puzzles. But there’s another game—one that’s often overlooked—that can be just as effective, if not more so, at keeping your memory and attention strong: Go Fish.
This simple card game is more than a childhood favorite; it can be a powerful tool for older adults. Here, we’ll explain how it works, why it’s worth adding to your daily routine, and how it compares to other games known for boosting mental sharpness. Think of it as a light, social way to give your brain a daily workout without the pressure of tricky clues or tiny puzzle pieces.
Why Go Fish is a great game for retirees
Go Fish is easy to learn, easy to play, and ideal for keeping your mind sharp. It’s usually played with two to six people, using a standard deck of cards. The goal is to collect the most sets of four cards by asking your opponents for the ranks you need, like four sevens or four kings. If they have the card you ask for, they give it to you. If not, they tell you to “go fish”, and you draw from the deck.
This simple back-and-forth builds short-term memory by requiring you to remember who asked for what and who might be holding the cards you need. It also improves attention span and verbal interaction, which helps with cognitive function.
Because it’s played in a group, it encourages social engagement, another proven factor in slowing cognitive decline. Best of all, it’s relaxed, familiar, and accessible to people with a wide range of cognitive or physical abilities. It keeps the mind working without overstimulation. You’re thinking, remembering, planning, and interacting, all without screens or complex rules.
Other games for seniors to improve mental agility
While Go Fish is excellent for daily use, it’s helpful to mix things up now and then. Several other games offer different kinds of cognitive benefits and keep things interesting throughout the week.
- Scrabble: It challenges your vocabulary, pattern recognition, and memory. It’s a great option for people who enjoy words and want to keep their language skills sharp.
- Rummikub: It’s a tile-based game that pushes you to think ahead, reorganize, and adapt, which helps with strategic thinking and mental flexibility.
- Bridge: This one sharpens memory, attention, and teamwork. It’s a good fit for seniors looking for a consistent challenge and a strong social component.
- Mahjong: Another tile-based game that demands focus, memory, and a little luck. It’s especially good for people who like multi-step planning and keeping track of patterns.
- Checkers: Simple but strategic, it helps maintain logical thinking without the complexity of chess. It’s approachable and quick, perfect for short sessions.
- Trivia games: Trivia encourages recall of general knowledge, which is great for memory and confidence. It also sparks conversation, making it great for group settings.
Adding these games into your routine keeps things fresh and exercises different parts of your brain. No need to master them all—just find the ones that feel enjoyable and challenging enough to keep you engaged.