For many seniors, staying mentally sharp is an important goal. Though many seniors do experience cognitive decline as they age, all cognitive decline is not always an inevitable part of aging. In fact, there are many ways that seniors can combat cognitive decline or slow it and help to keep their brain strong and sharp. Staying healthy by eating a healthy diet, exercising, managing chronic medical conditions, and managing stress are key to keeping the brain in great shape. In addition, doing mentally stimulating activities like memory games can also help to keep the brain strong and slow cognitive decline.
If your loved one is striving to have great brain health, playing strategy games can be a fun way to pass the time and keep the brain active. Remember, these games can be even more beneficial when they play with a friend or a family member because social interaction and companionship are essential for brain health, too. Here are just a few brain games for seniors that your loved one may enjoy playing to strengthen the brain:
Card Games
Card games that involve planning, problem-solving, and strategy are excellent choices for your senior loved one. Card games are also fun to play in groups and they are sure to inspire a few laughs. Though the tendency may be for your loved one to only play their favorite game or a game that they are used to playing, help them to challenge their brain by learning a new game. Games such as rummy, Uno, canasta, and pinochle are great choices.
Chess
Chess can be exciting because usually, no two games of chess play out in the exact same way. Chess is a game that has been played throughout history and it continues to delight players today. Encourage your loved one to challenge a friend to a game of chess or even teach a grandchild how to play this well-loved game.
Word Games
Word games such as Boggle and Scrabble are great games for seniors who want to use their problem-solving skills and even learn a few new words along the way. These games are also great to play with a friend one-on-one or in groups. Word games can help your loved one to increase their vocabulary even as they age and they are very mentally stimulating.
Contact Us
If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home dementia care in Richardson, Texas, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands Home Care today at (214) 760-6944.