Key considerations for choosing games for memory problems
When selecting board games for someone experiencing memory problems, the focus should shift from competitive winning to social engagement and cognitive exercise. By choosing the right game and adapting play, you can create a fun, stress-free activity that boosts morale and mental agility. The key is to reduce frustration and promote positive, meaningful interactions.
Prioritize familiarity over novelty
Classic games that a person has played throughout their life often remain accessible even as their memory declines. Nostalgia can help with memory recall and make the experience more comfortable. For instance, playing a game they enjoyed in childhood can evoke positive feelings and older memories. Familiarity provides a gentle entry point, building confidence and reducing the stress of learning new rules.
Look for simple and clear rules
Complex rules can lead to confusion and frustration. Instead, opt for games with straightforward mechanics and clear objectives. Games that rely on matching, simple turns, or visual recognition are excellent choices. If needed, you can simplify the rules of a familiar game even further. For example, in a classic card game, you can limit the number of cards in play or adjust the scoring.
Adapt game components for accessibility
As memory issues progress, motor skills and vision may also be affected. Games with large, high-contrast pieces are easier to see and manipulate. Some companies even offer larger card decks or adaptive accessories like card holders and larger dice. Tactile elements can also be beneficial, providing sensory stimulation that aids engagement.
Choose cooperative over competitive games
Competitive games can sometimes cause anxiety or feelings of failure. Cooperative games, where all players work together toward a common goal, foster teamwork and shared success. These games can be a beautiful way to build relationships and allow everyone to contribute without the pressure of having to win. Relish's "All About Us" board game is a great example, designed specifically to prompt conversational storytelling.
Encourage social interaction
The social aspect of playing a game is just as, if not more, important than the cognitive benefits. Games provide a valuable opportunity for conversation and connection with family and friends, helping to combat loneliness and depression, both of which are risk factors for dementia. Some games are specifically designed to facilitate storytelling and conversation, tapping into long-term memories.
Comparison table of recommended board games
| Game Name | Core Mechanics | Adaptability | Social Component | Benefit for Memory Problems |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominoes | Matching numbers/images | Use larger, tactile tiles. Simplify scoring. | High (classic social game) | Visual matching skills, simple pattern recognition |
| Qwirkle | Matching shapes and colors | Simplify scoring. Focus on completing rows. | Medium (can be competitive) | Visual discrimination, pattern recognition |
| Uno | Matching numbers and colors | Use larger cards. Can adapt rules. | High (social and interactive) | Color/number recognition, turn-taking |
| Jenga | Stacking wooden blocks | Play without scoring. Use larger versions for easier handling. | Medium (can be stress-inducing) | Fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination |
| Ticket to Ride | Collecting and playing cards | Focus on a simplified version of the game. | Medium to High | Strategy, visual and spatial awareness |
| Call to Mind | Reminiscence questions | Use cards as conversation starters without competitive play. | High (specifically designed for this) | Recalling positive long-term memories, sparking conversations |
| MightyMind | Puzzles with geometric shapes | Auto-adapts to individual capabilities, from simple to complex. | Low (solitaire) | Restoring cognitive skills, logical thinking |
The therapeutic power of play
Playing games provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose, especially for those who may feel isolated by memory loss. The engagement required for games keeps the brain active, stimulating neural pathways and reinforcing cognitive function. For individuals with early-stage memory problems, games can help maintain existing skills. In later stages, adapted games offer a comforting, sensory-rich experience that fosters connection and joy, regardless of the outcome.
Creating the best game environment
To maximize the benefits and reduce stress, caregivers can create a supportive gaming environment. This includes choosing a quiet, well-lit space free from distractions, ensuring comfortable seating, and picking a time of day when the person is most alert and receptive. Remember that a game session doesn’t need to last long; several short, positive experiences are often better than a single long, tiring one.
Conclusion
For individuals with memory problems, board games offer more than just a pastime—they are a valuable tool for maintaining cognitive function, encouraging social interaction, and improving quality of life. By focusing on simple, familiar, and cooperative games with adaptable components, caregivers can create engaging experiences that promote a sense of connection and achievement. From classic card games to specialized reminiscence games, there is a wide range of options to bring joy and mental stimulation to those affected by memory loss.
Visit the Alzheimer's Society for more resources and support regarding dementia care.
