Dementia Games
Dementia games can turn a quiet afternoon into a moment of real connection. Our range includes retro classics like dominoes and card games, alongside purpose-designed options, all chosen for their emphasis on enjoyment over performance.
Familiar games draw on long-term memories and rules that are already known. Specialist games use high-contrast designs and simplified play to keep things relaxed and rewarding at every stage.
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Why Familiar Games Matter for People with Dementia
Long-term memories formed in childhood and early adulthood are among the last to be affected by dementia. This is why retro games and classic pastimes work so well: the rules are already stored in a part of the brain that remains accessible for longer. A game of dominoes or a simple card matching exercise can unlock recognition and confidence in ways that newer or more complex games cannot.
Research in the American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias found that Bingo improved cognitive test scores in participants with Alzheimer's disease. The principle applies broadly: games built on pattern recognition rather than memory recall tend to work well for people living with dementia.
Dominoes and card matching draw on visual and spatial skills. Board games with simple turn-taking encourage social interaction without pressure. The All About Us conversational game takes this further by guiding players through life stories and shared memories. For those who enjoy puzzles alongside games, our 13-piece jigsaw puzzles use large plastic pieces and familiar images designed for the same audience.
What Makes a Game Dementia-Friendly
The best dementia games share several key design principles. High-contrast colours and large playing pieces help people with visual impairment or reduced dexterity. Games that avoid time limits or competitive scoring remove unnecessary pressure. Laminated or wipe-clean components meet infection control requirements for care home settings. Every game in this range is designed for adults and avoids a childish look or feel.
How you play matters too. Let the person choose their game and keep sessions short. Focus on the social experience rather than winning or completing the game correctly.
FAQs
What types of games are best for someone with dementia?
Games that use simple rules and familiar formats tend to work best. Look for options with high-contrast colours and large pieces that are easy to handle. Card matching and dominoes rely on pattern recognition rather than memory recall. Avoid games with complex rules or time pressure as these can cause frustration.
Can playing games support cognitive function for people with dementia?
Research suggests that structured games provide meaningful cognitive stimulation. A study published in the American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias found that participants who played Bingo showed improved word retrieval and recognition scores on standardised tests. While games are not a treatment for dementia they can support engagement and quality of life as part of a daily care routine.
Why are retro or familiar games often recommended for people with dementia?
People with dementia tend to retain long-term memories from childhood and early adulthood far longer than recent ones. Games they played decades ago draw on skills and rules that are still accessible. This sense of recognition builds confidence and often leads to more relaxed and enjoyable sessions for everyone involved.
Are these games suitable for use in care homes?
Yes. Many of the games in this range feature wipe-clean or laminated components that meet infection control standards. They work well for group activities with multiple residents and can be facilitated by care staff or activity coordinators. Games designed for different stages of dementia allow you to match the challenge level to each individual.
How do I choose a game for someone at a later stage of dementia?
Look for games with fewer pieces and very simple interactions. Card matching with bold images or tactile games that involve handling objects can work well even when verbal communication is limited. At later stages the social experience of sitting together and playing matters more than completing the game. Ask care staff or family members which activities the person still responds to and build from there.
