Puzzles Help Slow Cognitive Decline

The risk of dementia increases with age and increasing numbers of us will either be living with it or become a care giver to someone with mental decline. Dementia causes problems with thinking, memory and reasoning. It happens when the parts of the brain used for learning, memory, decision making, and language becomes damaged or diseased. But there are things we can do to hold off these symptoms. It is important to stay socially connected, physically healthy, eat a balanced diet and stay mentally active.

We all want to feel loved, included and have social connection. Research has shown that people who are regularly engaged in social interactions and activities are better able to maintain healthy cognitive functions. Social support helps people maintain their independence and improves physical health. Loneliness is linked to cognitive decline and mental health problems. We just aren’t meant to be isolated.

Melinda and Melissa Dalgarn’s father was diagnosed with Lewy Body Disease, a form of dementia. He became confused, frail and gradually needed more assistance with basic functions. But he still enjoyed old family photos and jigsaw puzzles. They found that puzzles made from family photographs were ideal for their father. The puzzles helped with motor skills, stimulated his brain, and kept memories alive. The family photos are also a point of conversation.

Research has shown that games and jigsaw puzzles done for 45 minutes at least twice a week can improve memory scores and thinking tests for people with dementia, equivalent to about a six to nine month delay in worsening of symptoms. These people experienced increased feelings of well-being, an improved quality of life, improved communication and social interactions. Puzzles boost dopamine in the brain releasing feel good chemicals. Puzzles also exercise both sides of the brain and serve as a meditative state which can be a calming factor. Additionally, there are health benefits and a feeling of achievement.

The severity of dementia will determine the appropriate number of puzzle pieces, depending on the stages and progression of the disease. The Dalgarn’s found that a 30-piece puzzle was ideal for their father. They developed a partnership with PortraitPuzzles with a mission of creating a positive, esteem building interactive experience for the patient, family members and care givers. If you purchase a puzzle through PortraitPuzzles.com, a $5.00 donation will go to the Alzheimer’s Association. Download your favorite photos, which are then used to create a personalized puzzle. (Enter a promotion code “POP” when ordering 15 or 30 piece puzzles.) For more information, go to http://www.piecesofthepastpuzzles.com.

In an effort to support both care givers and people with dementia, Galena Clinic and the Dalgarn’s are hosting a free event on Friday, December 2 from 10:00 – 11:30. If you are a care partner or an individual with early to moderate Alzheimer’s, please join us for a social gathering of pumpkin pie and puzzles. Share your stories and socialize with others who have worries about memory. RSVP 815-777-1300.