Dementia is a complex neurological disease which often progresses later in life. In this blog, we’re exploring dementia jigsaws and their role in supporting brain health.
Anyone can be diagnosed with dementia. While it is more common to be diagnosed later in life, it can begin at any age. Those under the age of 65 displaying signs of dementia may be told they have ‘early-onset dementia’.
Dementia is a complex disease that is often misunderstood. It can be very challenging to navigate, for both the person diagnosed and those closest to them. There’s no sure way to prevent dementia, but healthy lifestyle choices may reduce risk or delay onset.
The disease is progressive, affecting a person’s cognitive function and memory. With this in mind, it can become difficult for people who are diagnosed with dementia to continue living the way they have previously. Older adults are likely to need extra support and care when developing dementia.
When supporting someone who has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s really important to check in on their well-being. Many individuals may feel lonely and become agitated with the disease. There are some activities which can help to alleviate agitation and promote positive well-being, for example, jigsaws.
What are dementia jigsaws?
Dementia jigsaws have been specially designed for people who have been diagnosed with the disease. People with dementia will progress at different rates, and some people may be diagnosed much sooner than others. This highlights the importance of finding jigsaws that meet the unique needs of your loved one.
Many dementia jigsaws have fewer pieces than a standard jigsaw, and they may also feature brighter colours. Solving puzzles may also help those living with Alzheimer’s disease.
What to consider when choosing a dementia jigsaw
Choosing the right jigsaw for your loved one is important, as you want them to engage with it and experience the many benefits, which we will go into later in the blog.
Choose the correct difficulty for the cognitive abilities
The key to choosing the right jigsaw is to ensure that it’s not too difficult or too easy. Otherwise, the individual is likely to become disinterested and not benefit from the activity. You know your loved one best and may be able to seek personalised advice from a healthcare professional on where they are up to.
Consider their mobility
Many older adults struggle with limited mobility and range of movement; therefore, it’s important to choose a jigsaw that they can use effectively. If your loved one struggles with hand movements, then you may find that a jigsaw with larger pieces is more appropriate.
Spark their interest with mentally challenging activities
There are so many different puzzle themes around, so there is sure to be one that your loved one is interested in. They may love to travel, or love a specific animal; either way, choosing a jigsaw with an interesting design will help them to engage with the activity.
What are the benefits of dementia jigsaws?
Improves cognitive function
By introducing activities such as jigsaws, you can encourage your loved one to improve their cognitive function and memory. By engaging the brain in this healthy way, you may help maintain cognitive abilities and improve quality of life.
It can be useful to try a range of different activities to support overall brain health.
Boosts confidence in everyday life
Accomplishments can boost confidence, and jigsaws are a great place to start with this.
Supports well-being and regulates mood
Many people who are diagnosed with dementia may experience poor well-being, but there are many ways to boost their well-being and support them. By taking on brain activities, your loved one can engage with activities alone and with others, allowing them to increase social interaction and reduce feelings of isolation.
These activities can also provide a great distraction from negative thoughts and feelings, allowing your loved one to relax while taking on a new activity.
Builds problem-solving skills
By working on a jigsaw puzzle or other activity, your loved one can help maintain existing problem-solving skills.
How to get the most out of dementia jigsaw puzzles
Dementia jigsaws are designed to improve cognitive function, support well-being and provide individuals with dementia with a fun activity. Here are some ways to encourage your loved one to make the most out of their jigsaw.
- Make sure they are comfortable – set them up in an inviting atmosphere to solve the puzzle. Get them a cup of tea and ensure good lighting.
- Create your own jigsaw – Perhaps your loved one has a favourite photo that you could turn into a jigsaw? Remember to consider the difficulty level when selecting the number and size of the puzzle pieces.
- Celebrate with them – Encouraging them to continue can help boost confidence, which is something many older individuals start to lack.
- Take breaks from brain puzzles – Make sure they know that they can take their time with the jigsaw and that breaks can be useful. You can also help them with the jigsaw when requested.
What other mental activity can support the brain?
The good news is that it’s not just jigsaws that can help your loved one. Here are some other fun activities that they may enjoy.
- Crossword puzzles
- Sudoku or number puzzles
- Word searches or other word puzzles
Completing dementia jigsaw puzzles regularly has so many significant benefits, from improving brain function to boosting well-being and confidence. We offer a wide range of dementia-friendly products, which can be purchased directly from our website.
These have been created with dementia in mind, ensuring that they support your loved one with cognitive performance. If you are concerned that your loved one is developing dementia, you should seek professional support. Read our blog on dementia support volunteering.
Visit our website to find out more about how we support older adults to live and age well in the North West. Contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions. We’re more than happy to help with mentally stimulating activities!
