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Are you looking to support your loved one with short term memory issues or dementia?
Our brains naturally age, just as our bodies do. Though forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, we can, and should, exercise our brains to promote cognitive health. Online games are fun, mentally stimulating and slow down the aging process by improving our brain health.
Brain games include solitaire, jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, word searches, suduko, Mah Jongg and more. These games are readily available online and generally free to start! Older adults with access to a computer, smartphone or tablet can play anywhere. My 85-year-old Dad plays often to fight off loneliness and boredom now that mom is gone; the fact that these activities help with memory issues is an extra bonus.
Seniors with dementia can benefit from online games too. To avoid frustration, we recommend setting them up with games that are not too difficult. Start with beginner level and advance slowly.
Brain Games Online
Solitaire
- Clean interface
- Unlimited undos & redos
- Over 30+ solitaire card games
- Compete for the top position on leaderboards
- Available on the web at Solitairebliss.com
Solitaire is a fun game that helps combat the effects of brain deterioration and dementia.
What is solitaire? Solitaire is a game played by one person with one or more regular 52 card packs. Cards are generally dealt according to a given pattern. The object is to arrange the cards in a predetermined manner.
- Thousands of free online jigsaw puzzles are available
- New puzzles every day in Puzzle of the Day
- Adjustable difficulty and accessibility
- Upload your pictures and turn them into puzzles
- Try im-a-puzzle.com for a web-based jigsaw puzzle platform
Jigsaw puzzles have many benefits, including improving memory and thought processes. They are also therapeutic as they bring a sense of comfort and enjoyment – and are a great way to pass the time.
Not sure what the difference is between a jigsaw puzzle and a regular puzzle? You’re not alone. Basically, a jigsaw is a specific type of puzzle. The aim of a jigsaw puzzle is to reconstruct a picture that was cut many small interlocking pieces. A puzzle is a general term that refers to a problem or toy that people solve for fun.
Color By Numbers – Flowers
- Coloring activity in the paint-by-numbers genre, allowing users to transform a picture from black and white to color in a structured and “failure-free’ format
- Bright and clear design
- Different game modes allow for various activity levels
- Use of animations and sound effects to provide feedback
- No advertisements
- recommended by ActoDementia
- Learn more about Color By Numbers – Flowers Here
Available on GOOGLE PLAY or on the APP STORE
Othello (Reversi)
- Android only
- A board game for 2 players (best if familiar with the game)
- Gameplay hints available
- Multiplayer (pass & play) mode available
- Various difficulty modes available
- Adjustable background colours to improve accessibility
- recommended by ActoDementia
- Learn more about Othello here
- Available on Google Play
What is Reversi (or Othello)? It’s a simple game that helps keep the brain active that is enjoyed by many. The aim of the game is to claim the most amount of stones, occupying more of the board than the opponent in the process.
Blendoku 2
- Pick up & play’ gameplay
- Does not require precision
- Relaxing background audio
- Simple and responsive interface
- No advertisements in free version
- recommended by ActoDementia
- Learn more about Blenoku 2 HERE
- Available in APP Store
Not familiar with Blenduku? This beautiful minimalistic puzzle game is based on the principles of color theory. Puzzles range from easy to complex based on pattern arrangements and color contrasts between tiles. This game is one that requires abstract reasoning skills so may not be for everyone.
Mahjongg
- Online game for four players (best if familiar with the game)
- AARP offers a number of variations of the game:
- Mahjongg Solitaire
- Mahjongg: Age of Alchemy
- Mahjong Dark Dimensions
- Mahjong Toy Chest – Classic edition
- Holiday Mahjong Dimensions
Playing Mahjongg is a great way to keep your brain sharp. It does require more focus than the other games above. Therefore, Mahjongg may be best for someone who may be just starting to be forgetful and wants to sharpen their brain health, rather than someone already diagnosed with dementia.
The bottom line
These touchscreen apps promote enjoyable and stimulating activities for seniors who have access to technology and an interest in playing games. Many seniors living with dementia who do not have a working short-term memory happily pass the time playing the simpler games. And those who feel they are becoming more forgetful lately and want to strengthen their brain health may find games like Mahjongg extremely helpful and also fun! Check back on this page of 50PlusToday often – we will be adding to the list regularly!! And if you know of some good brain games online, please share in the comment section below. We’d love to hear from you!
HELPFUL RESOURCES (Dementia/Alzheimer’s):
Alzheimer’s Association
Family Caregiver Alliance
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
Cleveland Clinic Healthy Brains
Caregiver Action Network
Dementia Friendly America
Memory Cafe Directory
Bonus info: Free games to play on your cell phone to improve your brain health
Whether you’re a casual card player or a board game expert, everyone appreciates freebies. Here are a few of our favorites for those looking to keep their brains sharp.
