'Brain-training Games' Enhance Memory and Help Slow Cognitive Decline

     Dementia is a common health concern among the elderly and can significantly impact the quality of life for both patients and their families. However, engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as brain-training games, can help slow cognitive decline and enhance memory function. Today, I would like to share some of these games for everyone or their loved ones at home to try.

1. Crossword Puzzles

Crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and jigsaw puzzles not only help with memory recall but also improve analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Sudoku: Play here
• Crossword Puzzles:
  • Animal Names: Play here
  • Fruit Names: Play here
  • Vegetable Names: Play here

• Jigsaw Puzzles: Play here

2. Mental Arithmetic Games

     Mental arithmetic exercises help improve memory, enhance calculation skills, and keep the brain active. Caregivers can play with dementia patients by starting with simple addition and subtraction exercises, such as subtracting seven continuously and having the patient provide answers step by step.

3. Memory Recall Games

     Caregivers can encourage patients to recall the names of friends or shopping lists. A fun approach is to use old group photos and ask the patient to recall the names of individuals. Another simple exercise is to show a 10-digit phone number, hide it, and then ask the patient to recall as many digits as possible.

4. Shadow Matching Games

     Shadow matching games help train visual perception, memory, and object differentiation skills. Players must observe shapes and details to find matching pairs, stimulating memory and cognitive processing. Caregivers can make this activity more engaging by organizing group board games for shadow matching.

• Shadow Matching Game: Download here

Tips for Effective Brain Training

• Choose games that match the individual's cognitive level.
• Engage in brain-training exercises regularly for 15-30 minutes per day.
• Vary game types to stimulate different areas of the brain.
• Play with others to encourage social interaction.

These simple yet effective activities can help keep the mind sharp and support cognitive health in a fun and engaging way.