Who says that memory care isn’t all fun and games? Seniors can improve their memories and have a good time too by playing games to help with memory loss. Read on to learn the science behind the fun, and find some new games to try with your senior loved one.
Games to Help with Memory Loss
When you look for ways to improve your mind, playing games might not be your first idea. However, it’s important to remember that having fun is as vital to your health as anything else you do to take care of your body. Finding the fun in something like memory care can help you stay focused, stay motivated, and keep coming back for more.
Not only that, but evidence continues to show that playing games is an effective form of memory care. Research shows a link between playing games and reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s, as well as other forms of age-related memory loss. Games that involve a social aspect have an even more profound impact on a senior’s cognitive skills, as social engagement is also a key way to keep a senior’s brain active and healthy. This is why memory games can be a perfect fit for any senior looking to boost and maintain their cognitive skills.
But what games should you play? According to neurologists, it’s less important to play a certain kind of game and more important to focus on challenging your mind in general. In other words, if you find a game intellectually challenging, you’re all set! If you have a friend to play it with, that’s even better. If you’re getting tired of the same old games, here are some new ideas you can try.
Trivia
If you’re taking a walk down memory lane, make it fun with a little competition. You can choose a topic that your senior loved ones are excited about, or just come up with some general questions that spark memories. Offer a small prize to whoever gets the most answers right. If you aren’t adept at coming up with trivia questions, there are lots of free trivia games for seniors available online.
Go Fish
Do you remember this game from your childhood? Go Fish is a great game to play with a group of seniors, since most of us know the rules and its silly nature makes it a lot of fun. It also reinforces memory functions, as seniors need to keep track of their cards and remember what’s where in order to play the game. This website offers some tips on how to adapt Go Fish for any pairing or group of seniors.
Sudoku
If you’re trying to give your brain some novelty, sudoku can be a great alternative to a daily word puzzle. Sudoku is a number puzzle game, but it doesn’t require any advanced math. Instead, it reinforces memory and cognitive processes by using numbers to fill a grid, much like a crossword puzzle uses letters. For extra engagement, try printing some of these free Sudoku for Seniors sheets and have your senior loved ones fill them out by hand.
Online Memory Games
Lots of people like to recommend online games to help build your memory skills. If your senior loved one is looking for ways to brush up their memory with the help of an app, they might feel overwhelmed with the selection available on their phone or computer. There are hundreds of apps out there that claim to improve memory, but they can cost money, and sometimes have a lot of ads or other annoyances you have to navigate to play. Seek out free games from sources you trust, like AARP or the Brightside Foundation.
_____
When you’re looking for games to help with memory loss, keep in mind that the most important part of the process is finding a game that will keep you coming back for more. It’s not what you play, it’s how you play it. Have fun!
A memory care facility is a great option if your loved one needs more comprehensive care after a dementia diagnosis. If you are looking for a memory care facility in Riverview, Florida, we invite you to tour our community, meet our friendly staff, and see our amenities first hand. Overlooking the Alafia River on twelve beautiful acres, the Crossings at Riverview offers a relaxing atmosphere, and our talented team is committed to cultivating a welcoming and vibrant community. Our goal is to make our community feel like home for all of our residents. To schedule a tour, call 813-671-0222 or contact us online. We look forward to meeting you!