Regular mental stimulation is said to help avoid age-related mental degeneration and may even slow disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia. If you have an elderly loved one, these tricks  may help:

1. Sudoku: A fun and engaging numbers game, sudoku requires the player to see patterns and strategize. Because Sudoku is difficult, it can also give one a sense of accomplishment after the puzzle is solved.
2. Chess: Another classic strategy game, chess is a great way to keep the mind sharp. If your loved one knows how to play, they will likely enjoy the activity with you or friends.
3. Puzzles: Puzzles are another great way to keep the mind sharp while also keeping busy. If your loved one isn’t particularly a big fan of math, puzzles can be a great option.
4. Memory Games: There are several games on the market that are designed specifically to boost memory in people with early stages of Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Some examples include Amazing Chase, a handheld game with marbles and Call to Mind, which is a board game designed to retrieve memories.
5. Book Club: Reading fictional books is entertaining and retelling what one has read is a great way to stimulate the mind and to train both long- term and short-term memory.

As you choose a memory stimulation task, consider your loved one’s needs. Are they suffering from mobility issues? If so, hand-held games may not be ideal. Likewise, if your loved one spends a lot of time alone, games requiring a partner like chess and board games aren’t accessible. Fortunately, Sutton In-Home Senior Care is here to help you care for your loved one. We offer a variety of services and our trained professionals can provide your loved ones with high-quality care. Call us today!