15 Movies for Seniors and the Elderly

“What are some good movies for old people?” That may be a close-minded way to phrase that question. After all, older adults have a wide range of tastes. Good movies for elderly adults can elicit responses of sadness, joy, or just plain nostalgia. In our list of good movies for the elderly, we made sure to compile a little bit of everything to satisfy specific tastes. Here are some classic, tearjerker, funny — and most importantly, good — movies for seniors.

Classic Movies for Seniors

For when you need a dose of nostalgia, it’s best to dive into a reliable classic. Below are some great classic movies for elderly.

1. Casablanca (1942): Set during World War II, a nightclub owner must choose between love and duty in this iconic romantic drama.

2. Gone With the Wind (1939): Follow the life of Scarlett O’Hara from the Civil War to the Reconstruction era as she navigates love, loss, and survival.

3. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946): You don’t have to wait until Christmas to enjoy the heartwarming tale of George Bailey as he recognizes the impact he has on the lives of others. 

4. The Godfather (1972): Embark on Michael Corleone’s journey as he goes from reluctant outsider to full-fledged mafia boss. Make it a triple feature with the full trilogy. 

5. The Wizard of Oz (1939): Travel somewhere over the rainbow with Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion as they make their way to the Emerald City.

Tearjerker Movies for Seniors

Crying can be quite cathartic and have many healing benefits. Here are some films for seniors that will tug at the heartstrings.

6. Driving Miss Daisy (1989): An unlikely friendship forms between an elderly Jewish woman and her Black chauffeur in this touching drama. 

7. The Notebook (2004): The hit romantic film based on the Nicholas Sparks novel is accessible across generations as it details the love between Allie and Noah.

8. On Golden Pond (1981): An aging couple reconciles with their estranged daughter and stepson during a summer at their lake house in this heartfelt story.

9. Steel Magnolias (1989): A group of close-knit Southern women navigate life challenges as they support each other through thick and thin.

10. Terms of Endearment (1983): A story spanning multiple decades, this powerful drama explores a complex relationship between a headstrong mother and her equally headstrong daughter.

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Funny Movies for Seniors

You don’t want to cry too much though. Sometimes, you want to escape from reality and have a laugh. Let’s take a look at some hilarious movies for the elderly.

11. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011): A group of British retirees move to (what they thought was) a newly renovated hotel in India, but end up experiencing unexpected joys.

12. The Bucket List (2007): In this road trip flick, two terminally ill men escape from a cancer ward to embark on an adventure as they complete a list of things to do before they die.

13. Going in Style (2017): After their pensions get canceled, three retirees plan a bank heist to help them pay the bills and come through for their loved ones.

14. Grumpy Old Men (1993): A lifelong feud between two neighbors gets worse when a new lady moves across the street and two compete for her affections.

15. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993): Following a divorce, a father disguises himself as a British nanny to spend time with his children in this hilarious family comedy.

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