Card Games for People with Alzheimer’s: The Science Behind the Entertainment

Playing card games is a popular form of entertainment for people of all ages. Whether it’s a casual game of solitaire or a competitive round of poker, card games have been enjoyed for centuries. But did you know that playing card games can also have cognitive benefits, especially for those with Alzheimer’s disease?

Research has shown that engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and improve overall brain function.

The top card games that can provide entertainment and cognitive benefits for people with Alzheimer’s include:

• Solitaire
• Matching games
• Memory games
• Rummy
• Simple versions of traditional games

Solitaire

Solitaire is a single-player card game that involves arranging cards in a specific order. This game requires focus, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. For people with Alzheimer’s, playing solitaire can help improve their concentration and memory as they try to remember which cards have been played and which are still to be played.

Matching Games

Matching games involve finding pairs of matching cards from a deck that has been shuffled. These games require visual perception, short-term memory, and decision-making skills. Playing matching games can help stimulate the brain and slow down the decline of cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer’s. They can help improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Memory Games

Memory games are all about matching pairs of cards by remembering where they are. They’re a fun way to challenge your memory and can be especially helpful for improving focus and concentration, particularly for those affected by Alzheimer’s. Memory games can also help with problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.

Rummy

Rummy is a popular card game that involves creating sets or sequences of cards. This game requires strategic thinking, planning, and concentration. For individuals with Alzheimer’s, playing rummy can help improve cognitive function by stimulating the brain and promoting the formation of new connections between nerve cells.

Simple Versions of Traditional Card Games

For those who may find traditional card games too complex or overwhelming due to Alzheimer’s, simpler versions can still provide entertainment and cognitive benefits. These include simplified versions of Go Fish or Crazy Eights, which require players to remember basic rules and make simple decisions. These games can also be adapted to include larger, easier-to-see cards that are more suitable for individuals with vision impairments.

The Science Behind Card Games & Memory

Research has shown that playing card games can positively impact cognitive function. Studies have found that individuals with mild cognitive impairment who played card games regularly showed improvements in their memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. This is because playing card games requires the use of multiple parts of the brain, including those responsible for visual perception, short-term memory, and decision-making skills.

Aside from improving cognitive function, playing card games can also provide social interaction and stimulation for individuals with Alzheimer’s. It can be a fun activity to do with friends or family members, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. The enjoyable nature of card games also reduces stress and anxiety, which can be beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer’s who may experience these emotions.

Tips for Playing Card Games with Alzheimer’s

When playing card games with someone with Alzheimer’s, it is important to make some adaptations to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Some tips include:

• Use larger, easier-to-see cards: Using larger cards can make the game more accessible for those with vision impairments.
• Keep the rules simple: Simplifying the rules of traditional card games can help reduce confusion and frustration for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Stick to basic gameplay and avoid introducing any new or complicated rules.
• Be patient and supportive: It is natural for individuals with Alzheimer’s to experience difficulty in remembering rules or strategies. Be patient and offer gentle reminders or assistance when needed.
• Choose familiar games: Playing card games that the individual is already familiar with can help them feel more confident and engaged in the activity.
• Play at a comfortable pace: Allow plenty of time for gameplay and avoid rushing through rounds. This will ensure that individuals with Alzheimer’s can keep up and fully participate in the game.

Creating Meaningful Moments Through Memory Care at Juniper

Playing memory and card games can be beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s. It not only helps improve cognitive function but also provides a fun and engaging activity that promotes social interaction and reduces stress. With some adaptations and patience, playing these games can be an enjoyable experience for people with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.

Our memory care program here at Juniper Village at Aurora offers a variety of activities, including memory games, to engage and stimulate residents with Alzheimer’s. We recognize the importance of promoting cognitive health and quality of life for those living with this disease. 

Contact us today to learn more about our memory care program. We aim to create meaningful experiences for your loved one with Alzheimer’s through the power of card games and other activities.