Arthritis & Cooperative Tabletop Sessions
Diversional therapy means choosing recreation that accommodates those limitations while still fostering social involvement and fun.
Cooperative board games and online play are excellent.
Choose games with low dexterity demand: Splendor, Kingdomino, or narrative role-playing where verbal narration dominates.
Use online platforms so the person can stay seated comfortably at home and still join the group. BoardGameGeek makes it easy to search by “easy to handle components” or “minimal small pieces” for accessibility.
Research backs this: older adults playing board games show better cognitive function, social connection and reduced loneliness.
Design each session with an opening chat (“How’s the stiffness today?”), a 30-minute game with adapted components (card holders, large tokens), and a social end (“Who made someone smile today?”).
Then encourage a light hobby task: watching a game tutorial online, or tidying a game box.
That builds hobby identity.
As diversional therapists we emphasise “recreation with purpose” — these game sessions become part of self-management of arthritis by reducing fatigue, increasing social engagement, and building fun habits.
The hybrid online/in-room model means even when mobility dips, social life continues.
Ask us about how we can build a social circle in a lifelong hobby for you or the person in your care regardless of age or ability. If we can’t personally deliver a program for you, we will refer you to someone who can regardless of location in Australia.
Email us: gametherapynetwork@gmail.com