Dementia, especially Alzheimer's disease, affects almost 600,000 Canadians, with 124k new diagnosis’ in 2020 alone. And while it is not picky in whom it chooses to affect, a whopping 61.8% of those with dementia are women. By 2030, projections estimate that case number will rise to near a million!
While there is no cure, many studies have been conducted to indicate that patients that keep the brain stimulated and engaged, see a slow down of symptoms and progression.
In fact, these studies suggest that keeping the brain active can help delay dementia onset.
Combined physical and cognitive game training improves working memory and executive function.
Computerized cognitive training enhances gray matter in the brain, preserving cognition.
Board games reduce cognitive decline in the 70-79 age group.
Games including board games, video games, and VR games, also enhance short-term memory, problem-solving, and more.
So, what kind of games are recommended?
Engaging in brain games is beneficial for cognitive function, especially in older adults. Here are some effective options:
Word Puzzles like crosswords, word searches, and Wordle stimulate word-related skills.
Jigsaw Puzzles preserve memory and reasoning.
Card Games like Bridge and Uno boost reasoning and concentration.
Dice Games such as Yahtzee and Backgammon improve numerical and calculation skills.
Board Games like Trivial Pursuit, LIFE, Chess, Checkers, and Monopoly combine various elements and reduce cognitive decline.
In the face of rising dementia cases, it's crucial for physicians to explore strategies to combat this issue. While no foolproof method exists, engaging in brain games significantly contributes to maintaining cognitive function in older adults.
Encouraging patients to incorporate these games into their daily routines can enhance their quality of life and potentially mitigate dementia's impact. Embracing games as a preventive measure is a significant step toward a healthier future."