Many seniors know the benefits of exercising the body, but there are many good reasons to encourage your aging loved one to exercise their brain as well. With dementia and cognitive decline being major concerns in seniors, learning to improve brain health is as important as ever – and one of the best ways to help your loved one get started is by having them play memory games for seniors.
Lumosity
Researchers at Harvard and Stanford universities as well as the University of California, Berkeley, have all used Lumosity, an online memory training program, in their studies about cognitive decline. The designers of the game site state that 97 percent of participants can improve their memory after just 10 hours of Lumosity play time, according to ABC News. To personalize the games chosen, each user is asked questions that are specifically geared toward cognitive processes to find their strengths and weaknesses.
Sudoku
This is one of the most popular brain training games for seniors, as it allows individuals to differentiate patterns using problem solving and logical processes. As we get older, our senses may dull because we become used to solving the same types of problems over and over again. This can cause the brain to become “burnt out” or stagnant. With Sudoku, new deductions can be made because the brain uses synapses that allow seniors to fill in gaps. It’s an easy-to-understand game, with a variety of levels, that almost anyone can pick up, which could also account for its popularity.
The Right Word
This timed memory game for seniors, which can be found online, tests memory and language skills by listing a series of definitions and having players come up with the right term. Although it may sound simple enough, there are many definitions that could relate to multiple words. After going through several definitions, you will then be instructed to recall the words that were given, whether or not the questions were answered correctly.
Crossword puzzles and word searches
If your parent likes more traditional memory games, that’s OK too. There are several great tactile games that help improve memory and cognitive skills. Even if they can’t solve the whole puzzle in one sitting, setting aside some time to work through several clues can help jog memory and keep their brain balanced. Likewise, word searches can also foster short-term memory skills and increase analytical processes.
The key with any memory game for seniors is making it a daily habit. Because our neurons tend to dull over time, it is essential that these games are played on a regular basis to see the best benefits.
Check in with our Life Enrichment team at Aegis Living to learn about all of the options provided for our residents.
