Using Games To Give Control To the Lives of Those With Alzheimer's and Dementia

The R.O.S. Therapy System

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, and one of the most frustrating and debilitating diseases. It is a progressive disease that starts with mild memory loss, and progresses to severe memory loss that impairs both physical and mental function. 

Those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and Dementia often feel out of control. It is frustrating to have difficulty performing tasks that were once simple, to be unable to find names for familiar objects, to lose interest in previously enjoyable activities, and have difficulty with basic things like reading and writing. All of these and more can lead to social withdrawal, and a sense of having little or no control. Playing games can be a great way to give control back to those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of Dementia. 

Unfortunately, the common symptoms of Alzheimer’s, such as memory loss, difficulty with problem solving, difficulty remembering rules, trouble with spatial relationships, difficulty judging distance, color, contrast, etc., as well as trouble with vocabulary, conversations, and social interaction, make playing games a challenge on their own. The trick is to find games that are simple enough to play, that challenge the individual without adding to their frustration. Here are a few key things to consider:

1. Timing- Games that last longer than an hour can be hard for a person with dementia to follow.

2. Cards and pieces- While cognitive function is the first to be impaired when Alzheimer’s hits, motor skills are often effected, and holding cards, or managing small game pieces can be difficult. Cards, however, are a useful tool for recognition, sorting and memory matching games. The R.O.S. card holder insert was designed at the request of various professionals to allow folks the opportunity to work with cards again.

3. Communication- Games that require a lot of reading, writing, or verbal communication can be extremely frustrating to an Alzheimer’s sufferer. Searching for words and being unable to grasp them will leave them feeling out of control rather than in it. Choose games that do not require much verbal or written communication.

R.O.S. Therapy System is a great option for game playing with those who have Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia. It will help to naturally stimulate memories and conversation. It is a great resource, and an innovative and highly effective product puts the individual with dementia back in control by giving them an enjoyable way to interact with relatives, caregivers, and friends, despite their limitations.

R.O.S. Therapy Systems is a console that has interchangeable activity boards that can slide in and out to allow play of different games and activities. It is easy to clean, easy to use, and designed with the physical and mental handicaps suffered by those with Alzheimer’s in mind. No batteries required. It is a wonderful tool for providing meaningful activities seniors can enjoy with dignity. Learn more about the R.O.S. Therapy System.

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