Puzzle Tips For Senior Memory Care

Puzzles are a surprisingly powerful way to work the memory and challenge the brain. In fact, they are one of the best ways that you can take care of your senior’s memory and even improve it. Here are a few tips for when and if you decide to integrate puzzles into your senior’s memory care.

Start With Simple Puzzles

At first, a senior who needs memory help may struggle with large puzzles. Try out one that has no more than 100 pieces or so. This should be enough challenge for just about anyone, and the pieces should be large enough to be easy to maneuver. In this way, your senior can also work their fine motor skills.

Try More Complex Ones

Though you could simply buy puzzles with 200, 500, or even 1,000 pieces, you could also increase the complexity by buying a three-dimensional puzzle. This will really challenge the memory of your senior and force them to think in new ways.

Move Past Picture Puzzles

If your senior has already mastered picture puzzles, try different types. For example, geometric puzzles require putting shapes together in a way that creates a specific pattern. You could also add “brain twister” puzzles that require manipulating items in a specific way. All of this practice will not only improve their memory but expand their problem-solving skills.

Managing memory problems in senior citizens is a true challenge that may be outside of your skill set. If you are having trouble helping your senior or just need some advice, please contact us today to learn more.