Brain Game for Seniors, Color Word Fun!

Are you up for the Challenge?

Short Description:

Get ready to have some fun and give your brain a little workout!
In this activity, you’ll see boxes with color names written inside — but don’t be fooled!
Your task is to say out loud the color of each box, not the word you read.
Try to go through them as quickly as you can — it’s trickier than it sounds, and a great way to keep your mind sharp!

Directions for Caregivers:

Sit beside the person where you can both easily see the worksheet. Start by explaining the instructions clearly, and consider doing the first one or two together as an example. Encourage them to go at their own pace, but cheer them on gently to keep it lively and fun. If they get stuck, offer a supportive hint (“What color do you see?”) without rushing them. Praise their effort often, focusing on the fun of the challenge rather than speed or perfection.

In a group setting, you can turn this into a light-hearted game! Hand out worksheets or display the colors where everyone can see. Explain the rules and perhaps have the group practice a few together first. Then you can either have everyone say the colors aloud all at once (for lots of energy and laughter) or take turns going around the group. Celebrate mistakes with humor — the goal is to enjoy the mental workout, not to be perfect. Offering small encouragements like “You’re doing great!” helps keep the mood upbeat and lively.

When working with someone who has dementia, maintain a gentle and relaxed atmosphere.

Focus less on speed and more on engagement and enjoyment. You might simplify the task by using fewer colors at a time or helping them by pointing and asking, “What color is this?” rather than giving complex instructions. It’s important to celebrate every effort, even if the answers are mixed up — the main benefit comes from the stimulation and connection the activity provides, not getting it “right.” A warm smile, patience, and lots of encouragement make all the difference.

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About this Activity

Why This Activity Is Good for You:

  • Keeps your mind sharp: This fun challenge helps you stay focused and think quickly.

  • Strengthens memory and attention: It exercises the parts of your brain that help you remember things and stay alert.

  • Builds mental flexibility: It teaches your brain to switch gears smoothly — a skill that's helpful in everyday life.

  • Brings joy and laughter: It's a light-hearted way to have fun and share a few laughs!

  • Gives a sense of achievement: You’ll feel great seeing how well you can do, even when it gets a little tricky!

Remember: It's not about being perfect — it's about keeping your mind active and enjoying yourself!

Try this color challenge with a slightly different twist.

Did you know?

1. Red grabs your attention!

Red is the first color babies can see after birth, and it’s often used in signs and advertisements because it’s so eye-catching.

🌼 2. Yellow makes you feel cheerful.

Studies show that yellow can boost your mood and make you feel more energetic — it’s the color of sunshine and smiles!

🌊 3. Blue is the world's favorite color.

Surveys around the globe consistently find that blue is the most popular favorite color — it's calming, like the sky and the ocean.

🌳 4. Green helps you feel relaxed.

Looking at green spaces (like trees and gardens) can lower stress and even help you heal faster after surgery — that’s why hospitals often use green!

🖤 5. Black isn’t really a color!

Technically, black is the absence of all colors of light — that’s why it’s so good at absorbing heat.

Do you want to find out more about color psychology? See what verywellmind.com has to say about it.