Both dementia and Alzheimer’s can have a significant impact on seniors and their loved ones. While there are no known cures for either of these conditions, researchers agree that staying mentally active can help prevent and even slow the effects of each disease. The following are five games to play with dementia patients, Alzheimer’s patients, and anyone at risk.
#1 – Trivia
This simple game can be a great option for staying mentally active. All trivia questions require knowledge and long-term memory. The game also frequently includes problem-solving. So while a player may not know the exact answer, they may come up with a good answer through deduction.
Additionally, this is a really easy game to set up. Go online and you can find many websites with trivia suggestions. Plus, you can always make your own.
#2 – Crosswords
Crosswords are another easy-to-start game that can challenge the mind. Like trivia, crosswords are great for keeping a person’s memory active because they require knowledge of various subjects, particularly culture, to complete them.
Some crosswords are designed to require some logic and deduction. In particular, cryptic crosswords focus more on problem-solving than on rote memory.
#3 – Lumosity
If you are looking for something a little more all-inclusive, Lumosity is a popular suite of brain games. It is all digital but requires very little in the way of tech skills to operate. Many of the included activities are great games to play with Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.
Lumosity can be played on a computer or any iOS or Android device. It is a subscription service with options for all ages.
#4 – The Classic ‘Memory’ Game
This old-school game is extremely simple to play but can be surprisingly challenging. It can be played as a single-player or competitive game.
First, lay out a selection of playing cards face down. Then, flip them over and try to find matching sets. If you fail to find a matching set, flip the cards face down again.
You can easily tune this game to the players. For more of a challenge, have extra cards and try to match sets of three or four.
#5 – The Ungame
Finally, this is a game that isn’t a game. There is no competition and no specific objective when playing Ungame. Instead, it is targeted at starting conversations. As players advance along the playing board, they get prompts asking them to share specific thoughts, feelings, and ideas.
There are no right or wrong answers, and each player can get as in-depth as they like. Other players can answer and discuss too.
There is a senior edition of the game, intended specifically for older players. However, you don’t need that version to make it a good brain game for seniors.
Get Better Care for Your Loved One
With the above games to play with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients, you can help your loved one keep their brain sharp. Also, consider the right memory care and assisted living. Olivenhain Guest Home provides care for senior citizens who may have special needs due to dementia, Alzheimer’s, or other conditions. Contact us today for more information.
