At Bayshire San Dimas, we believe that one of the core aspects of caring for someone with memory issues is supporting their brain health. As there are various facets of brain health, including cognitive function, motor function, emotional function, and social function, working on all these can become overwhelming.
However, certain activities, like cognitive/memory games, are especially effective, as they are designed to stimulate the mind. They aid in memory enhancement, promote social connections, and ultimately improve quality of life. Here’s a look at how we support brain health through games in our memory care San Dimas
Cognitive And Strategic Games
These games help sharpen one’s mental acuity and problem-solving skills. They provide mental stimulation, which results in the reinforcement of neural connections and encourages neuroplasticity. Here’s a summary of some of these games.
Word Puzzles
These options include crossword puzzles, word searches, and word association games. Practicing these helps one with language skills, vocabulary, and memory recall.
Card Games
Card games are a low-key activity that’s excellent for keeping the mind active and engaged. Options like matching pairs, Go Fish, or a simplified version of Uno are good for improving concentration, memory, and strategic thinking.
Board Games
Classics like checkers and other board games are great for improving concentration and social interaction. Individuals with advanced dementia can play simplified versions of the same game, which feature high-contrast pieces.
Trivia
These games focus on nostalgic topics to encourage recall of positive memories. It improves memory and cognitive function and reduces stress.
Reminiscence And Sensory Games
These activities aim to spark memories and engage residents on a deeper emotional level. Here’s a summary of some of these games.
Memory Tray Games
In this game, staff place familiar items, such as keys or old coins, on the tray and ask the residents to recall them after covering them. This game stimulates cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and critical thinking, while also promoting social engagement.
Reminiscence Trivia
This is a resident-friendly game built around their personal history, utilizing old photos or favorite songs from their youth. This game sparks conversations and helps residents preserve memories.
Sensory Games
These games stimulate seniors’ neural pathways and help improve memory and attention. They also boost mood, reduce stress, and encourage a socially enriched environment. Seniors may choose to sort objects by texture, shape, and color or engage their various senses through activities such as puzzles, music, and aromatherapy.
Key Benefits Of Games For Memory Care Residents
From cognitive benefits, such as enhanced focus, improved problem-solving, and slower cognitive decline, to emotional and social advantages like reduced isolation and increased self-esteem, the benefits of cognitive games for memory care residents are numerous.
- Stimulates The Brain: Games engage and challenge different parts of the brain, helping maintain and strengthen neural connections.
- Improves Social Engagement: Group games help residents combat isolation by creating a safe and engaging setting for them to interact and connect.
- Reduces Anxiety and Agitation: Even the smallest wins boost a resident’s self-esteem, providing them with a sense of accomplishment.
- Preserves Dignity: Engaging in activities that residents once enjoyed helps them feel connected to their past selves, preserving their dignity.
Bayshire San Dimas—Where Person-Centered Memory Care Programs Are Followed
At Bayshire San Dimas, we understand that practicing certain activities as a part of a daily routine can help individuals with memory impairments lead a much healthier and happier life. Among these pursuits is playing memory games, which are beneficial for seniors in many ways. From stimulating cognitive functions to improving mood to fostering social connections, the benefits are many.
Choosing Bayshire San Dimas for your later years means ensuring you have proper access to all the required conveniences and services for an enjoyable aging experience. Memory care programs at our memory care San Dimas are resident-oriented, meaning they put the residents at the forefront. Contact us to learn more about how our care programs can be the solution you or your loved one needs for proper care.
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