There are a number of outside games that can be enjoyed by our nursing home residents. Some may require modifications and others may not. In general, it is necessary to have at least one good arm for throwing or pitching. Individuals in wheelchairs can play as easily as those who walk.
Horseshoes: There are regulation sets and there are recreational sets with lighter shoes. You can also move the pegs closer together.
Lawn Darts: A simple game and with four players there is no walking required. Hoops can be moved close together if necessary.
Ladder Ball: Again, with four players, no walking is required. Ladders can be moved for skill.
Frisbee Toss: Similar to lawn darts but using a Frisbee. Requires a different set of muscles.
Bocce Balls: There is more strategy to this game but it is not required for fun. The balls will roll better if the resident can bend over or reach close to the ground before rolling the ball.
Croquet Hoop Shoot: To play on a croquet court would be impractical but to set up a series of hoops that can be reached from one “tee” box would be practical. Participants would be required to hit the ball thorough each successive hoop. Count the number of hits required or number of hoops achieved or make your own rules.
Sand Wedge Golf: Residents use a sand wedge to lift the Golf ball and attempt to hit it into a hoop placed on the grass.