When a loved one begins to lose their memory, it can be difficult for them and their family and friends. Finding ways to connect with them via conversation may be difficult, as they can get lost and may not remember stories you are referencing, which can cause frustration in some cases. One way to connect with people of all ages is by playing games together, and those with memory loss are no exception!
Why Games Are Great for Brain Exercise
For those who are just beginning to demonstrate memory issues or for adults and seniors looking to keep their brains sharp before problems arise, games can help. Some games work as memory exercises, which research suggests helps with declines associated with dementia and memory loss. Working crossword or sudoku puzzles into your daily routine or playing along with Jeopardy! contestants are all great ways to exercise your brain. By playing different types of games and increasing their difficulty, you can keep your brain evolving, so don’t be afraid to switch up your routine.
Choose Age-Appropriate Games
Seniors, including those with memory loss, deserve to be treated with dignity. Although it may seem like a good idea to choose games geared toward young children since they are easier to play, consider how you would feel being asked to play these as an adult without a child present. Try to choose games that are enjoyed by everyone throughout life rather than those typically only played by young children. Of course, if a grandchild is in on the gameplay, this would be a more appropriate option so they could join in.
Try Games They’ve Always Enjoyed
Rather than looking for specific games targeted toward people with memory loss, you could try to bring out an old favorite to play. If there is a game they enjoyed and played frequently in the past, it might be automatic to them. If this isn’t the case, be creative and try to find ways to make the game a bit easier or allow them to make the rules. For those with severe memory loss, it isn’t necessarily about winning or losing the game but just spending time and playing with one another regardless of how well the actual gameplay goes.
Here are some examples of games that could be engaging to your senior loved on:
- Bingo
- Dominoes, or Mexican Train
- Dice
- Puzzles with clear images
Some of this depends on your senior’s memory of the games. Simple, structured games are very beneficial for more than just memory. They offer companionship, activity, and engagement. In fact, games involving organization can help ease anxiety in many seniors.
Marquette Home Care Provides Companionship
Those aging in place can sometimes feel isolated and crave social interaction. If you have a loved one living in the Marquette, Negaunee, Ishpeming, Harvey, Skandia, or Gwinn areas who could use in-home care, Marquette Home Care in the Upper Peninsula can help with activities of daily living and provide companionship. Our staff can choose games that meet those experiencing memory loss where they are to provide an enjoyable and social experience.
We can also support those with memory loss by setting up visual schedules and reminders so important tasks aren’t forgotten. Contact us today for more information about senior care, and we can discuss your needs and how we can help.
Sources:
Games to Help with Dementia: Our Top 5
