Games and Mental Activities for Alzheimer's Patients

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder in which the brain gradually loses its cognitive abilities. In this process, supporting patients’ mental activities helps to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life. Games and mental activities contribute to strengthening memory, focus and problem-solving skills of Alzheimer’s patients. In this blog post, we suggest suitable games and mental activities for Alzheimer’s patients.

Games for Alzheimer’s Patients

Games to keep Alzheimer’s patients’ memory alive can help preserve brain function for longer. Memory games allow patients to improve their recall skills by focusing on past memories. Below you can find some game suggestions:

Concept Cards

The concept cards game is an activity used for Alzheimer’s patients and aims to help the patient remember objects. In this game, cards with different pictures or objects are used. The patient is asked questions about the object on the card, so that the patient tries to identify it using both visual and verbal memory. The cards are usually made up of items or foods commonly encountered in daily life, which allows the patient to interact with familiar concepts.

Sock Matching Game

Sock matching is a simple and effective activity that aims to improve both the mental and motor skills of Alzheimer’s patients. In this game, socks of different colors and patterns are mixed and the patient is asked to find and match the appropriate pairs. This activity promotes hand-eye coordination while improving visual memory and attention level. It can be familiar and motivating for patients as it looks like a task from everyday life.

Which Object Does What?

In this game, objects commonly used in daily life are shown and the patient is asked to explain what these objects are used for. For example, when shown a spoon, the patient is expected to remember that this object is used for eating. This game helps to reinforce the patient’s knowledge about objects by stimulating memory.

Clock Game

The clock game is an activity to reinforce the concept of time in Alzheimer’s patients. In this game, a wall clock is placed on the table and the clock is set to different times. The patient is shown, for example, “09.00” and asked what time of day this is and what is usually done at this time. The patient answers these questions or is guided with help. The game helps the patient to associate time with daytime activities and to strengthen memory.

Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables

The seasonal fruits and vegetables game is a game played with fruits and vegetables to support the cognitive skills of Alzheimer’s patients. In this game, seasonal fruits and vegetables (e.g. leeks, tangerines, bananas, apples) are shown and the patient is encouraged to remember these foods and understand the differences between them. The patient is asked whether the foods shown are fruits or vegetables, thus prompting the patient to talk and encouraging them to actively use their cognitive abilities.

Mind-Building Activities for Alzheimer’s Patients

Different activities and games can be suggested to improve the mental functioning of Alzheimer’s patients. These activities support the patient’s cognitive abilities, helping to strengthen memory, attention and problem-solving skills. Such activities also help patients to maintain mental stimulation while increasing their social interaction. By engaging patients in activities that are interesting and relevant to daily life, the progression of the disease can be slowed down and their quality of life can be improved. Below you can find some activities:

Handicrafts

Crafts are an enjoyable occupation for Alzheimer’s patients that supports both mental and motor skills. Activities such as painting, making shapes with mud or clay, and simple sewing allow patients to express themselves using their creativity. These activities improve attention and focus and strengthen hand-eye coordination. In addition, crafts give patients a sense of achievement, provide morale and motivation, help reduce stress and provide cognitive stimulation.

Listening to Music and Singing

Listening to music and singing is a powerful activity for Alzheimer’s patients that positively affects memory and emotional state. Familiar melodies bring back memories of the past, creating a sense of peace and happiness. Singing helps patients maintain language skills, while the rhythmic nature of music supports memory functions. In addition, music reduces stress and creates a bridge for social interaction, allowing patients to connect more actively with their environment.

Daily Routine Recall Games

Daily routine recall games are an activity that encourages people with Alzheimer’s disease to remember daily activities. In these games, the patient is asked questions about their morning, lunch or evening routines and reminded what activities they do at certain times of the day. For example, questions such as “What do you eat for breakfast in the morning?” help the patient reflect on past experiences and habits. This game strengthens memory functions and helps the patient to organize their daily life. Finding the right activities during the disease process will make it more manageable for the patient and their family. Therefore, it is recommended to make games and mental activities a regular routine. If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, you can contact us for professional support. You can also visit our page for detailed information about our Alzheimer’s and Dementia care service.

Games and Mental Activities for Alzheimer’s Patients FAQ

Why are games important for Alzheimer's patients?

Games and mental activities for Alzheimer’s patients can help slow the progression of the disease by supporting memory and cognitive skills. It can also improve patients’ mood and provide opportunities for socialization.

Which games are suitable for Alzheimer's patients?

Appropriate games for Alzheimer’s patients should be simple, low-stress and relaxing. Activities such as puzzles, word games, matching games, picture completion and board games (e.g. checkers, chess) can be suggested.

Which mental activities are recommended for Alzheimer's patients?

Mental activities include reading, memory cards, drawing, crafts, singing and journaling. These activities support cognitive functioning by keeping patients’ brains active.

Which technological games can be recommended for Alzheimer's patients?

Digital games can also be beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Memory boosting apps, brain training games and mobile games with simple puzzles can support cognitive abilities.

What activities are not suitable for people with Alzheimer's disease?

Activities that are too complex, stressful or may create a sense of failure should be avoided. Challenging problem-solving games, fast-paced or competitive activities may overwhelm the patient or increase anxiety levels. Using overly stimulating or complex technological tools should also be avoided.

How often should there be breaks in games for Alzheimer's patients?

People with Alzheimer’s disease may tire quickly and have limited attention spans. Therefore, frequent breaks should be taken during activities.