Finding the right activities for someone living with dementia can feel overwhelming. But there’s good news! With the right mix of physical, creative and social games, you can help boost their memory, lift their mood and create moments of joy for everyone involved.
Our guide explores the benefits of different activities for people with dementia, the games to avoid, and the five best retro games you can play today.
Why are activities important for dementia patients?
Activities are a crucial part of anyone’s life, whether or not they have a dementia diagnosis. They mix excitement and interest with the ability to express oneself. However, it’s not uncommon for people with dementia to withdraw from interaction with people and push away the hobbies they once loved. This also becomes difficult for family and friends trying to engage with someone living with dementia when they fall asleep often or are easily distracted.
Leading dementia charities define a meaningful activity for someone with dementia as providing the following:
- Cognitive stimulation by reflecting on the skills and life experiences they have
- Improved mood through emotionally nurturing experiences
- A sense of purpose and routine
- Social connection and the opportunity to spend time with loved ones
- The opportunity to make decisions and have choice
How can activities be adapted for people living with dementia?
Activities for people with a dementia diagnosis can be adapted depending on their physical abilities, the stage of dementia and the support network around them. The main takeaway is to ensure they feel confident and fulfilled, as well as building up their independence. Live-in carers are perfect for supporting these activities, whether that’s encouraging gentle exercise throughout the day, setting up games for the family to enjoy, or simply being a patient companion.
Physical activity
Generally, lighter movements and exercises are preferable to avoid injury or overwhelm for those with a later-stage diagnosis, such as stretching during TV advert breaks, walking the dog, or sprucing up the garden plant pots. It’s also possible to create seated exercises like directional rotating with cushions, stepping in rhythm to music or catching small balls with a laundry basket.
Some people with dementia are capable of moderate and vigorous activities, like playing team sports, riding a bike or heading to the golf course. It’s best to start slower and build up to more strenuous movements to be on the safe side and help them become used to a pace they’re comfortable with.
It’s also important to consider any pre-existing health issues or conditions before organising physical activities for someone with dementia. We don’t want any slips, bumps or trips to the hospital!
Arts and entertainment
No matter the age, everybody loves to be creative, whether that’s to paint, colour or craft. These activities can especially help people with dementia as a non-verbal way of communicating and a means of expressing themselves using their imagination and coordination abilities.
Music is also said to ignite memories or emotions for people living with dementia – why not find a few CDs or vinyl records that may be in your loved one’s home and make a digital playlist for them to listen to more easily?
People with dementia may not have the same concentration as they once did, so reading books may seem like a chore for them. Discuss with them if they would like an audio version to listen to, as it’s a way they can still get their fantasy fix or reminisce about famous people they’ve idolised in their life through autobiographies.
Are there any games which should be avoided for people with dementia?
Yes, there are three types of games which people with dementia should avoid playing to prevent confusion, frustration and coordination difficulties. However, this doesn’t mean to say you shouldn’t try it – it all depends on their level of understanding.
- Complex and longer games: Many games can make the most skilled players irritated and instructions can be unclear. Large board games with several pieces, like Monopoly and Trivial Pursuit, should be avoided.
- Word-based games: Word or number games like Scrabble or Sudoku can be enjoyable in the early stages of dementia. However, as memory and concentration decline, they may become frustrating or overwhelming, so it’s best to adapt or simplify them.
- Time-based games: Games that rely on speed, strict turn-taking or timed tasks can create unnecessary pressure. Instead, choose activities or games that allow the person diagnosed with dementia to play at their own pace, focusing on enjoyment rather than performance.
What type of games are best for people with dementia?
As dementia gradually reduces a person’s ability to think, remember and reason, it’s essential that any games they play don’t aggravate their symptoms. But more importantly, make sure they have the best time, and it matches their interests!
- Board games help with memory, communication and emotional regulation* for one-on-one quality time. This includes jigsaw puzzles, dice games and card games.
- Video games target the memory, can improve reaction times and assist with problem-solving, while multiplayer elements mean other people can get involved. These can either be on mobile devices, computers or games consoles.
- Virtual reality games are an immersive way to improve cognitive and physical abilities. These will involve headsets or other wearable accessories, so ensure the person playing is comfortable with this before playing.
5 Favourite retro games for adults with dementia
Snakes and Ladders
A childhood favourite. Snakes and Ladders is a great way for everyone to be involved in a fun and engaging activity. You can find snakes and ladders in various formats, but selecting an option with bright colours and large pieces ensures the board is easy to see and the pieces are accessible to handle.
Noughts and Crosses
The simplicity of noughts and crosses makes it an excellent game to play if you have dementia. You can play the game with a pen and a piece of paper, or there are tabletop versions you can use with larger pieces. The familiarity of noughts and crosses makes it a game you can enjoy at any stage of dementia. You can even make a tally to make it competitive!
Dominoes
The black and white design of dominoes makes it easier for people with dementia to use and understand. The size of a domino also makes it better to hold and manoeuvre around the table. The concept of dominoes is perfect for interaction and hand-eye coordination.
Bingo
Due to the brightly printed sheets, bold coloured dabbers and listening skills needed, bingo could be one of the best games to play for people with dementia. It also helps with number and pattern recognition. It can be simply created with home crafts or game sets can be bought – either way, it has the perfect level of mental stimulation thanks to the concentration and alertness required.
Card games
If you’re looking for card games for dementia patients, the first thing to do is choose a difficulty level suitable for their comprehension. A deck of cards has many options, such as Rummy, Go Fish or Bridge, which are all useful for memory and problem-solving skills. There are also options like Uno which can be more interactive due to the coloured cards and larger print layouts.
Looking for support when planning activities for someone with dementia?
At the heart of every activity is connection – through laughter, good music or movement. With the right support, games and activities can become treasured moments for both people with dementia and their loved ones.
Whether you need an extra pair of hands on a temporary basis or continuous support through the day and night, Sova Healthcare carers would love to be involved. We’ve provided high-quality and highly rated healthcare services nationwide for years. Contact one of our friendly staff members today, and we’ll answer your dementia care questions.