Games for seniors with dementia: therapeutic approaches
- Hugo Oliveira
- Sep 7
- 5 min read
Games for seniors with dementia play an important role in the therapeutic approach to the disease . In a world with increasing longevity, caring for our elderly is everyone's responsibility: family members, caregivers, and the community. Dementia, which often occurs alongside depression, presents one of the greatest challenges at this stage of life.
According to Sofia Nunes de Oliveira, a neurologist at the Alzheimer's Association in Portugal , there are approximately 170,000 cases of people with dementia in Portugal . However, she warns that the number is likely much higher, as there are elderly people in nursing homes, institutionalized, or isolated who end up never being diagnosed.
Fortunately, through occupational therapy focused on the individual's needs, it is possible to alleviate symptoms and significantly improve the quality of life of older adults.
In this article, developed with the experience and care of the HUG Group, we'll explore strategies and activities that can make a difference in the lives of older adults with dementia . Discover a series of games and activities designed specifically for them, which not only provide playful moments but also have proven therapeutic benefits.
Dementia in the elderly
Dementia is a clinical syndrome characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive functions , such as memory, reasoning ability and independence in carrying out daily activities.
The most common symptoms are frequent forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty communicating, temporal and spatial disorientation, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
What treatments are available?
Currently, there is no cure for dementia, but several treatment approaches can improve patients' quality of life . It's important to emphasize the role of a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses physicians, psychologists, occupational therapists, and, of course, family members.
Medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors can be prescribed to help manage symptoms and improve cognitive function. Additionally, occupational therapy and cognitive stimulation can be extremely beneficial for maintaining functional abilities and stimulating the mind of older adults.
How to deal with dementia in the elderly?
In the world of caring for seniors with dementia, it's essential to understand that each individual is unique and that the approach must be personalized, considering each person's experiences, life stories, preferences, and needs. Here are some strategies that can help:
Know the person : Understanding the older adult's likes, dislikes, and life stories can help create a more individualized care approach;
Clear communication : Use short, clear sentences, using simple language, facilitating communication and understanding;
Safe and comfortable environment : Ensure that the environment in which the elderly person finds themselves is safe, welcoming and comfortable;
Consistent Routines : Establishing and maintaining a daily routine for people with dementia provides a sense of structure and security;
Promote independence : Whenever possible, encourage the person to perform tasks on their own, promoting their autonomy and sense of accomplishment.
How to care for an elderly person with dementia
Caring for an elderly person with dementia requires patience, understanding, and, above all, a lot of love and affection. These are some strategies that can help this process.
1. Training and support for caregivers
It is crucial that caregivers have access to adequate training and psychological support so they can provide the best possible care while also maintaining their own mental health.
2. Adaptation of residential space
Adapting the home to make it safe and functional, considering the specific needs of a person with dementia. The Hug Group store , located in Campo de Ourique, has everything seniors need. Organized by room, you'll find technical and support aids for every moment of the senior's day: eating, sleeping, using the bathroom, and more. Visit us!
3. Sensory stimulation
Creating activities that stimulate the senses can be a powerful tool, using textures, colors, and sounds to create enriching experiences. We'll explore this further below, particularly with regard to games and activities.
How to calm an elderly person with dementia
In moments of agitation or confusion, which can be a constant in people with dementia, it is essential to know how to calm and reassure the elderly person.
Calming music : Music has the power to touch the soul, and that's what's needed to calm an elderly person with dementia. Having a selection of music that the elderly person enjoys available is essential during times of increased agitation and nervousness.
Calm approach : Adopt a calm and patient posture, complemented by friendly nonverbal communication, including eye contact and gentle gestures that convey security and empathy.
Guided breathing : In stressful situations, implementing guided breathing strategies can be effective. Encouraging deep, slow breathing can help reduce anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of relaxation.
Games for seniors with dementia
Games for seniors with dementia allow them to find joy and satisfaction, reducing stress levels through laughter and fun. The well-being generated by laughter can translate into lower blood pressure and a stronger immune system, thanks to the release of stress-fighting chemicals. These playful moments also promote socialization and opportunities for family bonding and emotional comfort.
The benefits of games also include cognitive development, enhancing memory and strengthening essential mental abilities. Creative games encourage the formation of new cognitive associations, contributing to the prevention of diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's.
Discover 6 games for seniors with dementia:
Memory games : Match matching cards to form pairs. These games stimulate short-term memory, visual attention, and creativity.
Spot the Difference Game : Identify the differences between two similar images. The benefits of this game include developing concentration, perception, and analysis.
Crossword : By filling in gaps with the correct terms, this game promotes cognitive activation, logical reasoning and memory.
Card games and dominoes : In addition to being extremely popular among older children, these games stimulate cognitive development and encourage strategies and analysis of what opponents might be thinking.
Hangman Game : This game helps seniors learn new words and exercise their perception skills.
Mime : Encourages creativity and memory through the representation of films, professions and animals with body movements.
Activities for seniors with dementia
In addition to games, there are other activities that can be very beneficial for the health of seniors with dementia, promoting a happier and healthier life.
Painting and visual arts : Stimulate creativity and offer a form of expression. Visual arts allow you to make and create new things, using your imagination and improving your hand's dexterity.
Story time: Seniors can share life stories, promoting memory and socialization.
Movement to Music : Music-led physical activities are invigorating and mood-enhancing and are a more active way to enjoy music.
Outdoor walks : Relaxed strolls in parks or gardens promote contact with nature and vitality. Regular activities that require coordination and dexterity improve physical health, helping to maintain motor skills.
Cooking : Preparing simple recipes promotes teamwork and a sense of accomplishment.
We encourage you to try the activities and games and see the smiles you can bring to your loved ones. We're here to support you every step of the way, so don't hesitate to contact us for more information and any support you may need.