Play Brain Games With Seniors
Caregiver in Lowell MI: Brain Games
When both the mind and the body are active, elderly people live happier, healthier lives. Family caregivers can ensure their aging loved ones keep in fine mental shape by introducing them to stimulating “brain games.” These are games that researchers believe will promote brain health, boost cognitive ability and delay the onset of dementia. Many of the games can be done solo, but there are also many that seniors can play with family members, senior care aides and friends.
Here’s a list of brain games that elderly loved ones can get started on right away.
Classic Brain Games.
Playing games and doing puzzles are nothing new, but since recent studies have supported the theory that they help boost cognitive health, some of the old classics are receiving renewed interest. Crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku, mazes and word searches have been around for decades, but there are all kinds of new versions and senior-friendly workbooks on the market from modern publishers.
Digital Brain Games.
Technology has done a lot to change how we work, but also how we play. Smart phones, computers and tablets are now the gateway to a number of fun and challenging digital brain games. Seniors can participate in digital versions of old favorites, or enjoy new variations of puzzles and word games. Digital brain games can also include trivia games, card games, building and assembling games and much more. There are few limits to seniors when it comes to digital brain games.
Unusual Brain Games.
Sometimes the best brain games are not the obvious ones that everyone thinks about. Providing the brain with new experiences and forcing it to think outside of established routines can boost memory and cognition. Examples include playing tic tac toe to lose instead of win or play Solitaire but collect the cards from highest to lowest instead. Other game and brain ideas that seniors can do to improve their mental abilities are to try drawing or painting something with the non-dominant hand or completing a jigsaw puzzle upside down. An unusual approach to mentally stimulating activities can really make a difference.
Brain Games With Friends.
It’s always more fun to play games with friends, and elderly people are no different. Playing games is an excellent way for family members to spend time with elderly loved ones. Even home care assistants and companions can spend time with games to boost the relationship. Any type of strategy game becomes a brain game for seniors, such as dots and boxes, tic tac toe and hangman, Battleship, chess, checkers, Chinese checkers, mah jong and many others. Even classic children’s games can stimulate the brain and boost social interaction when they play with grandchildren and great grandchildren.
There’s no doubt that exercising the brain has tremendous benefits to seniors. Family caregivers may need to provide their aging loved one with a boost to get them started, especially if it is related to technology. No matter what blend of brain games an aging loved one enjoys, they will have a great time boosting their mental energy.
If you or someone you know needs help with caregiver services in Lowell, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.
Source:
http://discovermagazine.com/2009/the-brain/24-which-brain-games-will-help-you-the-most
http://www.rd.com/health/wellness/brain-exercise/
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