The Surprising Benefits of Playing Cards in Care Facilities
- Florida Custom Merch
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
When it comes to engaging patients and staff in healthcare and long-term care settings, sometimes the simplest tools are the most effective. Playing cards — especially jumbo playing cards with large faces — may seem like a small addition, but they can have a surprisingly big impact. From cognitive stimulation to social connection, these classic games can bring joy, engagement, and therapeutic benefits to residents, patients, and staff alike.
This article explores why care facilities, including nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), long-term care centers, rehabilitation centers, and post-acute care facilities, should consider incorporating playing cards into their programs.
Cognitive Stimulation and Brain Health
Card games are more than entertainment — they are an exercise for the brain. Games like Rummy, Bridge, Solitaire, and Go Fish challenge memory, strategy, and problem-solving skills. Regular mental stimulation like this can help slow memory decline and keep cognitive functions sharp, which is particularly important for residents in long-term care or rehabilitation programs.
Jumbo playing cards take this a step further by making the games accessible to everyone, including those with vision challenges. Large numbers and suits reduce strain and frustration, allowing residents to focus on the fun and benefits of the game.
Physical Coordination and Fine Motor Skills
Handling playing cards can also provide low-impact physical activity. Shuffling, dealing, and picking up cards helps maintain hand-eye coordination and dexterity — key areas of focus in rehabilitation and post-acute care.
For residents with arthritis, tremors, or limited mobility, traditional cards can be difficult to manage. Oversized playing cards make it easier to hold and manipulate cards, encouraging participation without discomfort.
Social Connection and Emotional Well-Being
One of the greatest benefits of card games in care settings is their ability to foster social engagement. Loneliness and social isolation are major challenges in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Card games encourage residents to interact, laugh, and form connections, breaking up the monotony of daily routines.
Staff members can also enjoy games during breaks or informal gatherings, providing a much-needed opportunity to relax and bond with colleagues. This shared activity creates a positive environment for everyone in the facility.
Inclusive and Adaptable for All Ability Levels
Playing cards are incredibly versatile. Games can be modified to suit different skill levels and cognitive abilities:
Simple games like Go Fish or matching exercises for residents with cognitive challenges
Classic games like Bridge and Rummy for more advanced players
Solitaire for independent focus and calm time
Team or partnered games that encourage cooperation and interaction
With jumbo cards, even residents with limited vision or dexterity can participate fully, making the experience inclusive for everyone.
Stress Reduction and Emotional Comfort
Playing cards offer more than mental and physical benefits — they provide emotional relief. For patients coping with anxiety, boredom, or discomfort, focusing on a familiar and enjoyable game can be soothing. Staff members also benefit, using card games as a brief, restorative break during a demanding day.
Low-Cost, Easy-to-Implement Engagement
Compared to many therapy programs or activity tools, playing cards are affordable, simple, and ready to use. They take up little space, are easy to sanitize, and can be used anywhere — from lounges and dining areas to private rooms or therapy spaces.
Family and Community Engagement
Card games can also encourage family involvement. Visitors can join residents for a game, creating meaningful memories and increasing satisfaction with their care experience. Volunteers or community groups can participate as well, broadening social networks and fostering a sense of connection.
Why Jumbo Playing Cards Are Ideal
You may have seen “giant” cards with large faces — these are commonly called jumbo or oversized playing cards. They’re more than a novelty; they’re a practical tool that enhances accessibility and enjoyment.
Benefits of jumbo cards:
Easier to read for residents with vision challenges
Easier to handle for those with limited dexterity
More engaging and less frustrating than standard cards
Conclusion
Across nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, long-term care centers, rehabilitation programs, and post-acute care facilities, playing cards — especially jumbo cards — offer a simple, effective way to improve cognitive function, physical dexterity, social engagement, and emotional well-being.
By incorporating card games into daily routines or organized activities, facilities can provide residents and staff with moments of joy, connection, and purpose. Sometimes, the simplest tools truly make the biggest difference — and in this case, it’s as easy as a deck of cards.
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