If you think about your memories, what comes to your mind first? Sad or happy ones? Sometimes it feels like our mind is filled with old-time movies, and we play them when we feel happy or sad. For those experiencing memory loss or early stages of dementia, those old-time movies get lost, sometimes never to be played again.

However, simple, enjoyable activities like matching games can make a huge difference in bringing back memories! Here’s how matching games work, how they can help, and how to enjoy them.

Why Matching Games?

Matching games are familiar, straightforward, and most importantly, they’re gentle on the mind. They’re not about achieving a high score or being the fastest. They’re about finding enjoyment in making connections and noticing details. For those with memory challenges, matching games can help bring a sense of calm, focus, and accomplishment. Continue reading →

Did you play with jigsaw puzzles when you were young? Do you enjoy doing them as an adult? Each piece that fits makes you feel like a winner! Even while looking for the next piece to place, it’s rather meditative. You get lost in a trance almost, yet excited when you find the right piece or spot to put it.

Jigsaw puzzles don’t just pass the time, they have a beautiful way of nurturing the mind and creating a sense of accomplishment. For seniors facing memory loss or early dementia, jigsaw puzzles offer a way to engage their mind, make them relax, and even spark a bit of excitement.

Why Jigsaw Puzzles Are Helpful for Memory

Doing a jigsaw puzzle is like giving the brain a gentle workout. You have to focus on colors, shapes, and patterns, which keeps different parts of the mind engaged. The very act of connecting puzzle pieces strengthens mental pathways that contribute to short-term memory, problem-solving, and spatial awareness. Continue reading →