Cognitive training or "brain games" are an important part of the overall health and well-being of the elderly. Playing these types of mind-challenging activities helps to improve each individual's attention, concentration, memory, and problem-solving abilities.
As we age and our brains experience degeneration due to aging. Seniors must keep their minds active by participating in stimulating activities. Here are some top cognitive training games for seniors, courtesy of Senior Helpers Des Plaines.
Benefits of Cognitive Training Games
When seniors play cognitive training games, they can experience significant benefits. These brain skills can help aging adults stay alert and have improved mental clarity. Through these activities, seniors can sharpen their mental abilities and areas of the brain that show signs of weakening due to age-related degeneration. Furthermore, playing cognitive training games also leads to a feeling of purpose while encouraging social engagement with others around them.
Memory Games
One of the most popular cognitive training games for seniors is playing memory games. They’re great for stimulating thought and providing a sense of challenge and fun. For example, the card game "Concentration" is ideal for seniors struggling with short-term memory recall.
By dealing out pairs of cards face-down on a table, seniors have to try and identify which two cards match before turning them over. It is an effective way to boost immediate memory recall while providing social engagement when they play against another opponent or alongside friends or family members.
Crossword Puzzles
Seniors who love the challenge of puzzles also enjoy crossword puzzles. Crossword puzzles are often considered one of the best methods for exercising logical reasoning skills, concentration, and focus. You can buy puzzles from bookstores that specialize in adult logic games. There are also many online versions for seniors who prefer to remain at home. Many digital versions have hints should they get stuck while working through their puzzle.
Brain Teasers
Another great form of cognitive exercise is brain teasers. These games require seniors to think outside the box and find solutions. They can focus their attention on finding patterns and figuring out how to manipulate these objects for a successful outcome. For example, in most jigsaw puzzles, there is only one right answer but requires a bit of problem-solving skills to put it all together correctly.
Seniors Can Play Cognitive Training Games With Their Caregivers
One of the best parts about playing cognitive training games is that it opens up opportunities for seniors to interact with their caregivers while they play. Playing board games like Scrabble or other word-building games can help spark conversations as well as help build stronger relationships and bonds between older adults and their caregivers.
Get Started With Senior Helpers Today
Cognitive training games for seniors are a great way for the elderly to get the most out of life. By keeping their brains active and healthy, seniors can remain alert and focused, and be better able to engage with those around them when they engage in these activities. Senior Helpers Des Plaines is committed to helping clients maintain their mental agility at any stage in life through compassionate companion care services. Contact us today if you need help or have questions about our senior care services in Chicago, Des Plaines, and Lake Forest.