What kind of games are best for dementia? A comprehensive guide for caregivers

A study from the National Institute on Aging suggests that engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help improve cognitive health in older adults. Finding appropriate and enjoyable activities is key when considering what kind of games are best for dementia patients to support their well-being and maintain connection.

Quick Summary

Games for people with dementia should be adapted to their cognitive abilities, focusing on familiar, low-stress activities like simplified board games, card matching, jigsaw puzzles, and sensory-based play to provide stimulation and social engagement.

Key Points

• Match the game to the stage: The best games evolve with the progression of dementia, from complex cognitive puzzles in early stages to simple sensory activities in later stages.

• Simplify and adapt: To reduce frustration, choose games with large pieces, clear visuals, and simplified rules, focusing on participation over competition.

• Prioritize familiarity: Stick with games and activities that were once familiar to the individual, as these can tap into ingrained memories and provide comfort.

• Engage multiple senses: Incorporate reminiscence and sensory-based activities like listening to music, touching different textures, or smelling familiar scents to foster emotional connection.

• Keep it short and positive: Opt for short play sessions (10-20 minutes) and focus on creating a positive, low-pressure environment to avoid agitation and fatigue.

• Focus on the connection: The primary goal is to foster social interaction and connection, providing a sense of purpose and joy for both the individual and their caregiver.

The Importance of Games and Activities for People with Dementia

Engaging in purposeful, enjoyable activities is vital for anyone, but for individuals with dementia, it holds particular significance. Research has shown that games and activities can help stimulate cognitive function, improve memory, elevate mood, and reduce agitation and anxiety. They provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose, fostering positive emotions and reducing feelings of isolation. The right game or activity depends heavily on the individual's interests, abilities, and the stage of their dementia, requiring caregivers to be adaptable and patient. The key is to focus on the joy of the activity and the connection it brings, rather than on winning or performance.

Games for Early-Stage Dementia

In the early stages of dementia, individuals can often still engage in activities that require some strategic thinking and memory recall, though simplified versions are often best to avoid frustration. The goal is to provide cognitive stimulation and social interaction. Examples of suitable games include:

• Word Puzzles: Crosswords, word searches, and anagrams are excellent for verbal learning and memory. Large-print versions or word searches with specific, memorable themes can be particularly effective.
• Card Games: Familiar card games like UNO, Go Fish, or simple memory matching can be adapted. Use large-print cards for better visibility and focus on matching colors or numbers.
• Board Games: Classic board games like Checkers, Dominoes, or Mahjong can be enjoyed, especially if they were familiar before the onset of dementia. Simplify the rules and play in teams to reduce pressure.
• Jigsaw Puzzles: Puzzles with fewer, larger pieces and clear, familiar images (like nature scenes or animals) are ideal. This activity promotes visual recognition and problem-solving.
• Trivia and Reminiscence Games: Games that spark conversation about past experiences can be very rewarding. Specialized reminiscence games or simply using old family photos and music can trigger pleasant memories.

Activities for Middle-Stage Dementia

As dementia progresses to the middle stage, activities should become simpler and more focused on sensory engagement and motor skills. The emphasis shifts from complex cognitive challenges to providing a sense of purpose and comfort.

• Sorting Games: This is a simple yet satisfying activity. Use coins, buttons, or colored beads and ask the person to sort them by color, size, or shape. This can improve fine motor skills and focus.
• Bingo: A classic favorite, Bingo can be adapted with large-print cards and large markers. Picture-based bingo can also be used to simplify the game further.
• Simple Cooking or Baking: Involve the person in simple, safe culinary tasks like stirring ingredients, kneading dough, or decorating cookies. The familiar smells and tastes can be a powerful sensory experience.
• Music and Movement: Listening to familiar music from their past and encouraging gentle movement, dancing, or even tapping their feet can be very effective. Music stimulates memories and can significantly improve mood.

Engagement for Late-Stage Dementia

In the late stages of dementia, communication is often more difficult, and activities should focus primarily on sensory stimulation and emotional connection. The goal is to provide a sense of calm and comfort.

• Sensory Boards and Fidget Blankets: These items feature different textures, zippers, buttons, and other objects to occupy hands and provide tactile stimulation. This can be very calming and reduce agitation.
• Aromatherapy: Using scents that evoke positive memories, such as lavender, vanilla, or familiar spices, can be a non-verbal way to elicit a positive emotional response.
• Hand Massages: A gentle hand massage with lotion can be very soothing and provide comfort through touch.
• Pet Therapy or Doll Therapy: Interacting with a gentle therapy animal or a realistic doll can provide comfort, a sense of nurturing, and a point of positive focus.
• Looking at Photo Albums: Simply flipping through family photo albums and talking about the people and memories can still be a powerful, connecting activity, even if the person cannot recall all the details.

Comparison Table: Games by Dementia Stage

Game Type	Best For Stage	Cognitive Skills Addressed	Adaptations & Tips
Word Puzzles	Early	Language, Memory, Reasoning	Use large print, choose familiar themes. Keep sessions short.
Jigsaw Puzzles	Early to Middle	Visual Recognition, Problem-Solving	Larger pieces, familiar images. Can be done collaboratively.
Card Matching	Early to Middle	Memory, Concentration, Problem-Solving	Use large, high-contrast cards. Simplify rules (e.g., match colors instead of suits).
Bingo	Middle	Listening, Hand-Eye Coordination	Large print, pictures, or objects instead of numbers. Play as a group for socialization.
Sorting Games	Middle	Fine Motor Skills, Focus, Organization	Use familiar objects like buttons, coins, or silverware. Focus on the action, not the outcome.
Sensory Boards	Middle to Late	Tactile Stimulation, Relaxation	Occupy hands with various textures and objects. Great for calming agitation.
Reminiscence Activities	All Stages	Long-Term Memory, Emotional Connection	Use photos, music, or familiar objects to spark conversation and positive emotions.
Music and Singalongs	All Stages	Emotional Regulation, Memory Recall	Play favorite old songs. Sing together. No pressure to remember lyrics.

How to Choose and Adapt Games for Your Loved One

When selecting a game, it is essential to tailor the activity to the individual's current abilities and interests. Start with what was familiar and enjoyable to them before dementia. Adaptations are crucial for success and enjoyment:

1. Prioritize Familiarity: Familiar games and activities are more likely to be successful because they tap into deeply ingrained memories. Avoid introducing complex new games.
2. Simplify Rules: For board and card games, simplify the rules to make them less confusing. The focus should be on participation and fun, not on competition.
3. Minimize Frustration: Choose games with large, easy-to-handle pieces and high-contrast visuals to accommodate potential visual impairment and reduced dexterity. Be patient and supportive, and stop the activity if the person becomes agitated.
4. Short and Sweet: Keep game sessions brief, typically 10 to 20 minutes, to prevent fatigue and loss of interest. Several short sessions are often more effective than one long one.
5. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome: The therapeutic benefit comes from the engagement itself, not from winning or completing the game perfectly. Celebrate small successes.
6. Create a Calm Environment: Reduce distractions, such as background noise or a busy environment, to help the person focus.

For more information on adapting activities, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America offers helpful stage-specific guidance for caregivers, emphasizing the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment [https://alzfdn.org/therapeutic-activities-for-3-main-stages-of-alzheimers-disease/].

Conclusion

Choosing the best games for dementia involves a thoughtful approach that considers the individual's needs at every stage of their journey. From stimulating cognitive puzzles in the early stages to soothing sensory activities in the later stages, the right games can significantly enhance a person's quality of life. By focusing on simple, familiar, and adapted activities, caregivers can foster moments of connection, joy, and purpose, making a profound difference in the lives of those they support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some simple card games for someone with dementia?

Simple card games like Go Fish or a color/number matching game with large-print cards are excellent. You can simplify the rules further by playing open-handed so everyone can see all the cards, making it less stressful.

How can I adapt board games for someone with dementia?

Adapt board games by choosing classics like Snakes and Ladders or Checkers with large, high-contrast pieces. Play as a team, and don't enforce strict rules. The goal is engagement, not winning.

What are sensory games and how do they help?

Sensory games use the five senses to provide stimulation and comfort. Examples include sorting objects with different textures in a sensory bin, aromatherapy, or listening to familiar sounds. These activities can be calming and evoke positive feelings.

Can people with dementia play video games?

Yes, some video games can be beneficial. Simple, non-complex games like Tetris, Wii Sports, or mobile games with large, clear buttons can improve visual memory and attention, particularly in earlier stages.

What should I do if a game causes frustration or agitation?

If a game causes agitation, stop the activity immediately. The person may be overwhelmed. Redirect their attention to a calmer activity, such as listening to music or a gentle walk. It is important to end the session on a positive note, even if it's a simple conversation.

How do reminiscence activities help dementia patients?

Reminiscence activities, like looking at old photo albums or listening to nostalgic music, can tap into long-term memory, which often remains intact longer. This can trigger cherished memories, foster conversation, and provide comfort.

Are there any free game resources for dementia caregivers?

Yes, several online resources and community sites offer free printable games. Look for large-print picture bingo cards, matching games with familiar images (animals, food), and sequencing cards that show simple, everyday actions.

How long should a game session last for someone with dementia?

Keep sessions short, typically 10 to 20 minutes, to prevent fatigue and frustration. Monitor their engagement level and be ready to end the activity before they become bored or agitated.