Fun Games that Stimulate Cognitive Function in Seniors with Dementia

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Fun Games that Stimulate Cognitive Function for Seniors with Dementia in Dallas, TX

Researchers around the world have discovered the benefits seniors with dementia can obtain by playing certain games. The focus, concentration, and motor skills exercised during these games reinforce and build new neural pathways. Games also bring memories to the surface while encouraging social interaction between dementia caregivers and the senior loved ones they care for.

Bingo

Depending on the severity of dementia symptoms, learning new games may be frustrating and too challenging. Common games like bingo have been played for generations and are based on simple concepts. In addition to traditional bingo cards that display numbers and letters, other versions of the game use cards that feature images of familiar objects, which can boost cognitive identification skills.

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but compassionate help is available. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elderly care Dallas families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Card Games

There are numerous card games that benefit seniors with dementia. Card games are useful because they’re not only socially interactive but also cognitively stimulating. Seniors with mild dementia symptoms may enjoy a challenging game of bridge or pinochle. On the other end of the spectrum, simple games like “go fish” may work for seniors with moderate dementia.

Concentration

This game can easily be modified to accommodate seniors with dementia by attaching images of familiar objects to cards. Choose images reminiscent of days gone by, such as historic vehicles, clothing, household items, or celebrities. Players then play a traditional game of concentration by finding matching images. This game helps seniors with dementia by exercising their memories.

A highly trained caregiver with experience in caring for seniors with dementia can be a fantastic resource for family members. Families looking for top-rated Dallas senior care providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

Word Games

Difficulty with word retrieval is one of the first symptoms of memory loss among seniors with dementia. A brain-stimulating game might involve challenging a senior to finish a common phrase by saying the last word. Word searches and crossword puzzles are also effective games to help seniors with dementia strengthen their vocabulary and verbal skills.

Video Games

Perhaps not surprisingly, video games can be quite a useful way to keep your loved one’s brain active. Most video games provide mental stimulation, but some companies have developed games specifically for older adults who need cognitive exercise. Alzheimer’s researchers have found seniors with cognitive decline can get a great deal of benefit from playing these types of games. One particular suite of computer games to consider is offered by Smartbrain. The Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry reported these games help with memory and attention, and they can even be adapted to meet the needs of seniors with various degrees of dementia.

Qwirkle

Aging adults may find this game especially stimulating for their brains. Qwirkle is similar to dominoes. It requires players to match small squares that have colors and shapes on them. The game’s simple rules avoid confusion and frustration, and the multicolored pieces provide visual and cognitive stimulation that promotes more neural connections in the brain.

Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Dallas seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate professional care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (214) 363-3400. 

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