Mind Building Games for Seniors

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Memory is one of the most difficult problems associated with aging. Seniors are more susceptible to degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and related dementias. One way to lower your risk of developing one of these mind-robbing diseases is to engage in mind-building games that force you to solve problems in a fun way. Find challenging games (like the ones listed below) that keep the brain active.

Computer Games

Technology allows us to use our brain in more ways than ever before. We can advance skill levels, save our results and refer back to them to follow our progress. Below are two computer games that are mind-building for seniors.

Posit Science -- Brain Fitness Program 2.0: This program ($395) has shown improvement in the memory of those who used it in the prescribed way.

MindFit: This game provides an Individualized system of mind-building games.
According to a March 2009 study at the International Alzheimer's conference in Salzburg, Austria, this game provides short-term memory improvement of 18 percent among participants age 50 and over. The price of this game ranges from $129 to $149.

Online Games

Just the act of surfing the Internet is good for seniors looking to keep their minds active. According to an article in the October 19, 2009 issue of Science Daily, "First-time Internet users find an increase in brain building after just one week."
A good online resource is Brain Games, which is a program created by Prevention Magazine (see References). The site includes links to a variety of mind-building games for seniors.

Board and Card Games

Board and card games that use strategy are also a great tool to help build the mind. Not only do the games....read all of Mind Building Games for Seniors

Board Games for Senior Citizens: Interview with Susan Berg

LoveToKnow Board Games
Activities directors, other healthcare professionals and caregivers,here is an interview you might be interested in
What are some simple board games that the elderly might enjoy?
The elderly might enjoy Checkers, Sorry, Parcheesi. The State Capital Game looks like something they may enjoy Chutes and Ladders, Scrabble, and trivia games. There are probably more.

Why is it important that the elderly play board games?
It is important for the elderly to play board games because these games keep their minds active and they foster socialization with their piers, friends, and family.

Are there any games that should probably be avoided?
Each person is different. If a game is too frustrating for an individual, it should be avoided. I like to work with people's strengths and interests. For example, if a person is visually impaired, you would not want to play a game where he would have to read small print or use small pieces unless, of course, you can give him the assistance he needs. You want him to enjoy and feel good about himself while playing the game.

How can family members and friends help older people with the frustration of playing a new game?
Give them plenty of instruction.
Break the directions down into small simple steps.
Have them be your partner when you play the game.
Play the game in short segments at first.
Try to compensate for any deficits they may have.
[edit]Do you have any other tips and advice you'd like to add?
I like the....read the whole interview

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