People living with dementia may sometimes experience changes in memory, concentration, confidence, or perception of time, but that doesn’t mean to say they lose their curiosity or sense of fun. Games are a wonderful way to stay engaged, encourage interaction with carers, family or friends, as well as bring moments of happiness and achievement.
At Aria Care, we know that meaningful activities can help maintain a sense of purpose and identity. Games chosen with understanding and sensitivity not only trigger memories and promote social interaction, but they also support overall wellbeing too.
Here, we look at the types of games that can benefit adults living with dementia and share some of the favourites enjoyed within our Aria communities.
Types of Games That Can Be Beneficial for People Living With Dementia
Memory Games
Simple memory games such as I Spy are great for gentle cognitive stimulation. These activities encourage recall, recognition, and concentration in a fun, pressure-free way. Matching games, where players must find pairs of matching cards or objects are also great for exercising and strengthening memory skills.
Examples:
- “Memory” card games such as Snap or Matching Pairs using familiar images
- Spot-the-difference activities (such as placing a few familiar items on a tray, then taking one away or rearranging the order, and encourage the player to identify what’s missing or changed)
- Object-finding challenges within a room or garden
Puzzle Games
Jigsaw puzzles, word searches, and crosswords are classic ways to stimulate the mind. They can help maintain problem-solving skills and focus. The key is to select puzzles that are suited to the person’s ability – large pieces, clear images, and achievable levels can help ensure success and enjoyment.
Word and Language Games
Games like Word Association, Name That Tune, or simple Fill-in-the-Blank exercises support memory and language & vocabulary skills while encouraging creativity and brining the fun! Familiar themes, such as favourite songs or foods, help make the activity engaging and relatable.
Sensory Stimulation Games
Engaging multiple senses can provide calm and comfort. Activities involving touch, sound, or scent can awaken memories and emotions.
Example:
Many of our communities have introduced therapy doll sessions, which have had a remarkable impact on mood and wellbeing. Residents often find comfort and purpose in holding, soothing, and caring for the dolls, which promote relaxation and connection through the power of touch.
Group and Social Games
Games played with others are invaluable for encouraging conversation, teamwork, and shared giggles.
Examples:
- Bingo
- Snakes and Ladders
- Dominoes
These classics are easy to adapt to suit individual abilities, supporting turn-taking, focus, and fun.
Music and Singing
Music can be one of the most powerful forms of connection for people living with dementia. Familiar songs and rhythms can evoke positive emotions and memories, encouraging expression and engagement.
Residents often enjoy sing-alongs, playing simple instruments, or guessing familiar tunes, all of which strengthen social bonds and spark genuine joy.
Does The Stage Of Dementia Affect Which Games to Play?
Understanding a person’s abilities and preferences is at the heart of our dementia care at Aria Care. Our teams adapt games and activities to each individual to ensure they remain inclusive, engaging, and enjoyable at every stage.
The progression of dementia is loosely categorised into three stages: Early stage, middle stage, and late stage.
Early-Stage Dementia
People in the early stage often continue to enjoy a wide range of games that stimulate thinking and memory.
Good choices: Word puzzles, trivia quizzes, and social games that are challenging but not overwhelming.
Middle-Stage Dementia
At this stage, individuals may find complex games more difficult.
Good choices: Matching games, simple jigsaws, and sensory activities that promote focus and a sense of accomplishment.
Late-Stage Dementia
Later stages often call for more tactile and emotionally resonant activities.
Good choices: Gentle sensory play, listening to familiar music, or looking through photo albums. Games that focus on comfort, reminiscence, and human connection are most rewarding here.
Our Top 5 Games For Adults Living With Dementia
Quizzes
Our infamous quizzes are a firm favourite in our communities. They encourage recall, laughter, and group participation. Using familiar topics, such as music, history, or local trivia, helps stimulate memories, promote confidence, and bring out those competitive streaks! In short, quizzes and trivia are like a workout for the brain.
“Our quizzes always get everyone smiling. They ‘wake up’ memories and instigate conversations, and it’s wonderful to see residents sharing what they remember.” Emilia Gajewska, community Relations Manager, Brook House Care Home
Dominoes
This age-old game ticks a ton of memory stimulating boxes. Dominoes remains one of the most loved games across our homes. It supports focus, coordination, and strategy while also providing calm and gentle competition. Whether played one-on-one or in a group, it’s a great way to connect and relax. We are partial to a dominoes match which can be a competitive business!
Doll Therapy
Therapy dolls have become a valued part of life in many Aria communities. The dolls, which have the weight of a newborn, and look and feel realistic, can offer comfort, purpose, and a sense of nurturing.
Residents often enjoy holding, singing to them, stroking their hands and face, rocking them to sleep, and caring for them, which can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. In fact, many residents fall asleep whilst soothing the dolls as they are so content and relaxed. Many residents request accessories such as cots, blankets, or clothes to personalise the experience – small touches that make a big difference.
“The dolls offer a renewed sense of purpose and a connection with the outside world, which can lead to increased activity levels or simply create pleasant nostalgic feelings or affection. It has been quite touching and beautiful to see real engagement from our residents that have historically not interacted with our other activities.” Emilia Gajewska, Community Relations Manager, Brook House Care Home
Pet therapy
Animal companionship can lift spirits, reduce stress, and encourage interaction. Visits from therapy pets or lifelike robotic animals are incredibly popular and often create wonderfully joyful responses.
Pet therapy supports self-esteem, communication, and calm, we’ve even noticed improvements in mood and blood pressure after sessions.
Hangman
Who doesn’t love a few rounds of Hangman? Whether it is guessing movies, TV programmes, prime ministers, or famous places, Hangman is an easily adaptable game for all to play. Food is a topic that most residents seem to have an opinion about, so we often use well-loved dinner dishes for inspiration!
Games to Approach with Caution
Complex board games with detailed rules or multiple pieces can be confusing or frustrating for someone living with dementia. Similarly, electronic games or those requiring fast reactions can be overwhelming.
We also recommend avoiding time-based games – play should always be enjoyable, relaxed, and pressure-free. The aim is connection, not competition. Ditch the egg timer and take your time instead.
At Aria Care, we believe that meaningful engagement helps people living with dementia to thrive. Through carefully chosen games and activities, we nurture connection, purpose, and joy – creating positive experiences for residents, families, and our care teams alike.
If you’d like to learn more about how we support individuals living with dementia, visit our Dementia Care page or contact one of our communities to see our approach in action..
RELATED ARTICLES:
Related respite care articles you may also find useful:
