Toss & Catch is more than a game—it is a simple way to create connection, movement, and success together. It can encourage hand-eye coordination while giving the resident and volunteer something fun to do side by side.

Every time a catch is made, you both win! This changes the game from “Can you do it?” to “Can we do it together?”

What you need

• Toss & Catch Game set Comes with: Paddles and balls. Paddles are velcro that actually grips the ball securely. (Amazon.com)
• OR Make it a Ring Toss with Large plastic rings (Neon Lightbulb Ring Toss, 1–2 plastic batons or wands, Rainbow Relay Baton. (Orientaltrading.com)

Set up

1. Demonstrate the Game: Show residents how the ball sticks to the Velcro paddle.
2. Seat the resident comfortably with enough space to move their arms, and secure the paddle to their hand.
3. Stand directly in front of the resident, close enough to make the activity easy.
4. Hold the paddle upright at a comfortable height.

How to play

1. Gently toss the ball a short distance toward a resident’s paddle.
2. Invite them to gently toss the ball back.
3. Celebrate every catch! Smile, clap, and say, “We did it!”
4. If the ball misses, simply laugh, encourage them, and try again. There is no score and no pressure.
5. Take turns if the resident would enjoy catching the ball with the paddle.
6. Keep the game short and end while the resident is still having fun.

Make it a connection

Bring a little fun and laughter to residents with this simple, interactive game! Using Velcro paddles and soft balls that stick to the paddles, volunteers can gently toss a ball to a resident and help them catch it. While you play, make eye contact, smile, and talk with the resident. Celebrate their success rather than focusing on your ability to catch the ball. Try saying:

• “That was a great catch!”
• “You got it!”
• “Let’s do it again!”
• “We’re a great team!”
• “That made me smile!”

For residents with memory loss

For a resident who may struggle with memory or communication, they can simply toss, watch, laugh, and experience the joy of accomplishing something with another person. And that’s the real victory.

Toss & Catch may be the game, but the connection is the reward.