Inspiration for a Soup and Game Night for Aged Care residents

Create a cosy winter warmer night in with soup and games

A cosy winter night in with some old-fashioned games and delicious warming soups to choose from, can be an enjoyable break from routine at your aged care facility in the cold months.

Evoking memories of winter holidays, organise a games night or afternoon at your aged care residence. The right mix of good food and fun activities will make it an event to look forward to.

You can keep it low-key or consider inviting family members to come along.

Of course, what you decide to play will depend on your residents' abilities. Those suffering from dementia or advanced ageing may need a helper or a more basic activity, while there are likely to be a few sharp-minded and shrewd card sharks, so watch out!

Easier card games

Even basic card games can help maintain healthy brain function for older people. You may find it helpful to order some extra-large playing cards or card holders for those who have difficulty with mobility.

Simple card games like Snap and Fish are fun for all to play. You can also bring out a deck of Uno cards for a few rounds of this classic favourite.

Challenging card games

Bridge, Gin Rummy, Rickety Kate and Canasta are more complex card games which require more forethought and strategy. You’ll find everyone has a slightly different idea of what the rules are so it can help to print off a version of ‘house rules’ for everybody to refer to.

If you think your residents are up for it, poker is another option, although the gambling should probably be done with matchsticks!

Board games

Checkers is a retro favourite which your residents may have fond memories of playing while they were growing up. Connect 4, while not strictly a board game, is another simple option.

Chess may not be ideal for a games night with lots of people involved but you could provide other games like Yahtzee, Scrabble, Bananagram, Drafts or Snakes & Ladders, or even Monopoly!

Other games

Memory, Celebrity Head and Trivia could also be fun and can be tailored to suit the age group. Choose a theme like Old Hollywood, Australiana or Historical Figures.

Creating a cosy night in for your residents is as much about the food as it is about the activities and no other food brings comfort and warmth to a meal like soup does, plus it is a popular meal choice in the evening.

Combine your games event with a menu of flavourful, simple to eat soups, and slices of fresh, warm bread. Either serve it first or have a break in proceedings for dinner.

You can prepare a range of soup flavours, some familiar and some new, and provide small tasting bowls so your residents can try a range of different soups. They may re-discover old favourites or find new delicious flavours.

From tried and true favourites like minestrone and tomato to less traditional soups with flavours influenced by Asia like this twist on a cream of chicken soup.