Simple games for preventing and improving dementia
In this article, we introduce games that are effective for preventing and improving dementia in older adults.
This is for those looking for simple recreational activities that can stimulate the brain.
We selected activities that are easy to do yet engaging and enjoyable.
The rules are straightforward, which makes them easy to understand.
Some physical games can be played even without any equipment.
Please make use of them not only for events but also during free time.
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Simple Games (1–10) for Dementia Prevention and Improvement
Newspaper race
Newspaper racing is such a simple yet fun game.
All you do is reel in a long sheet of newspaper with your feet, and it’s amazing that it can train leg strength and balance.
Since it gets both your body moving and your brain working, it seems likely to help prevent cognitive decline, too.
It’s great that everyone can enjoy it together in a friendly, lively atmosphere.
Because anyone can join easily, it seems perfect not only for events but also for brief free moments.
It’s wonderful that you’ve found a game that even older adults can get absorbed in and truly enjoy.
Object-passing relay
Let’s try a relay using items available at the facility, such as uchiwa fans, origami kusudama balls, ladles, and soup spoons.
Have the older adults sit in a single row of chairs, and use the fans or ladles to carry the kusudama or ping-pong balls to a basket.
Carefully transporting them without dropping helps stimulate brain activity.
Working together with the person next to them also fosters interaction, which can help relieve stress and promote emotional stability.
Having the participants make the items used in the game can also be an enjoyable recreational activity.
Color Matching Game
Here’s an easy tabletop “Color Matching Game.” Stack color cards in the order of prompts such as color names like “red” or “blue,” or prompts showing colored samples.
By remembering the prompt colors and stacking the cards, you activate the brain, which can help prevent cognitive decline.
Using your fingertips to place the color cards is also expected to be effective as brain training.
The fingertips contain many nerves connected to the brain and are even called the “second brain.” You can enjoy the game in many ways depending on how you arrange it, such as playing in teams.
It also promotes communication by encouraging conversation and cooperation with those around you.
Simple Games for Preventing and Improving Dementia (11–20)
Ball Passing Game
Do you know pool noodles? They’re lightweight, plastic foam sticks used for swimming practice and similar activities, and you can even find them at 100-yen shops.
Using these pool noodles and a box, you can make a handmade game device.
Skillfully use your fingertips to rotate the pool noodle and send the ball along.
Because you concentrate on moving your fingers to pass the ball, it’s expected to help activate the brain.
Plus, since you do it in cooperation with the person next to you and others around you, it also helps expand social interaction.
Aiming to pass the ball well should make things lively and exciting.
Please enjoy a fun time!
Egg Pack Game
This is an easy game that uses an egg carton.
Use a spoon to scoop ping-pong balls and place them into an empty carton.
By thinking about the scooping motion, you can expect to improve concentration.
The steps are simple, so it should be easy for older adults to visualize and participate.
The key to preventing cognitive decline is consistency.
The egg carton game is recommended because it’s quick and simple to do even in short breaks.
Placing ping-pong balls into the carton also gives a sense of accomplishment.
String-threading relay
Here’s an introduction to a threading relay using vinyl string.
First, have the older adults sit in chairs in a row.
Prepare strings of equal length, and thread toilet paper rolls or tape cores onto the strings.
The last person will place the ring of cores threaded onto the string into a basket.
Getting them into the basket can be tricky, so try to work together—that will also deepen interaction.
Because players hold the string frequently during the game, it can provide an easy way to stimulate brain activity.
Games for large groups let both body and mind get a workout in a fun atmosphere.
Give it a try!
Let’s light the candle game
Here’s an introduction to a tabletop game you can play with one hand.
Stand several toilet paper cores upright and gently place ping-pong balls on top of them.
It creates a visual effect like candles being lit.
Because you use your fingertips throughout the game, it helps train finger dexterity.
Moving your fingers can also stimulate brain activity.
Plus, since you have to place the ping-pong balls carefully so they don’t fall, it can help improve concentration.
Because the game uses only one hand, people with hemiplegia due to aftereffects of a stroke can also participate.
It can get even more exciting if you play it as a team competition.