Cognitive decline naturally happens with age. Yet, maintaining cognition through lifestyle choices is key to staying independent and happy.
Puzzles and games are a great way to keep seniors' minds sharp and engaged. They help with cognitive function, memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Additionally, they help keep the mind active and prevent dementia. If you're looking for ideas, this article looks at seven of the best puzzles and games for seniors.
The 7 Top Puzzles and Games for Seniors
Puzzles and games can help improve seniors' cognition and learning.
- Word games: Word puzzles like crosswords and Scrabble can be fun and challenging. They help with vocabulary, spelling, and memory recall.
- Logic puzzles: These can be anything from Sudoku to chess. They help with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Memory games: Games like Memory or Simon can significantly improve memory recall.
- Spatial reasoning puzzles help visual perception and spatial awareness. Tangrams and jigsaw puzzles are two examples.
- Pattern recognition games like Mahjong or Go Fish can help enhance pattern recognition and visual processing skills.
- Trivia games like Jeopardy or Trivial Pursuit are great for memory recall, general knowledge, and trivia buffs.
- Board games: Classic board games like Monopoly or Life are always fun. These can help with a wide range of cognitive skills, including memory, planning, strategy, and hand-eye coordination.
Games and puzzles also help to stimulate conversation and social interaction. They provide a fun way for seniors to spend time with friends and family and can also be a great way to keep boredom at bay.
How to Choose the Right Puzzle or Game for Your Senior Loved One
When choosing a puzzle or game for a senior loved one, consider the individual's cognitive ability and level of interest. Puzzles and games are not equal. Some are better suited for particular age groups or classes of cognitive ability. If the game or puzzle is for use at home, seniors should ensure enough space to avoid losing pieces.
Tips for Getting Started With Puzzles and Games
- Choose games or puzzles that are challenging but not too difficult. If seniors get frustrated, they are not likely to keep playing.
- Start with a short period of play and gradually increase it as your elderly loved one becomes more comfortable with the game or puzzle.
- Ensure the environment is quiet and distraction-free so your senior loved one can focus on the game.
- Be patient and supportive. Puzzles and games can be frustrating for seniors, but it's essential to encourage them to keep trying.
Always celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how small. It motivates seniors to keep playing.
Get Reliable Non-Medical Companion Services for Seniors
It's important to keep seniors engaged and active. Puzzles and games are a great way to keep them busy and increase their cognitive function. Professional companion care from Senior Helpers Salem helps your loved ones improve the comfort of their home. You shouldn't be the only one to care for your elderly loved one.
We provide a service that helps seniors maintain independence and quality of life. If you are looking for a home care provider in Salem, Dallas, Keizer, Albany, and Corvallis, OR, contact us at (503) 990-7112 to schedule an in-home assessment.