Guide
Activity Director Supply List: What to Stock
A well-stocked activity closet means you can run a good program even on the day the entertainer cancels. This list covers the supplies most activity directors in assisted living, memory care, adult day programs and senior centers use week after week. Start with the basics, add the rest as your budget allows, and print what you can for free.
Games that fill a room
- Bingo: large-print cards, a cage or app to call numbers, and markers or chips. Keep prizes small and frequent.
- Trivia and word games: a stack of question sets, a dry-erase board for scores, and a few "name that tune" playlists.
- Movement games: balloons or a soft beach ball for seated volleyball, bean bags and a target, and a parachute if you have the space.
- Cards and tables: jumbo-index playing cards, dominoes with large dots, and a card holder for residents with weak grip.
Quiet and in-room activities
- Large print puzzle books: word searches, crosswords and trivia, set at 16 point or larger, including the answer keys. Keep a few spares to hand out during room visits.
- Jigsaw puzzles: 300 to 500 large pieces for a common-room table, and 12 to 36 pieces with adult pictures for memory care.
- Coloring: simple adult coloring pages with bold lines, and thick colored pencils.
- Sensory items: fidget blankets, textured fabrics, scented hand lotion for hand massage, and a basket of things to sort (buttons, socks, silverware).
Exercise and wellness
- Chair exercise charts in large print, light resistance bands, and a playlist with a steady beat.
- Always check with your building's therapy or nursing staff before adding new exercise equipment.
Paper, printing and the office
- A monthly activity calendar (start from our free activity calendar template), sign-in sheets, and large-print name tags.
- Good copy paper and a printer setting of "Actual size" or "100%" so large print stays large.
- Laminating pouches for game boards and question cards you will reuse.
What you can get free
Before you buy, print what is free. We publish free large print puzzles every month, a free 16-page puzzle pack, trivia questions for seniors and easy printable puzzles for dementia. For planning ideas, see our guides to activities for assisted living and dementia activities.
When you are ready for more, the Senior Activity Director Pack bundles 50 large-print activity games, Christmas games and chair exercise charts, and the activity directors page has bulk book pricing and a facility print license.
This guide is general information for activity planning. It is not medical advice. For questions about a specific person's health, memory or safety, talk with their doctor or care team.
