Board games are more than entertainment - they are a gentle way to stimulate the brain, practice cognitive skills, and enjoy time with others. Playing familiar favourites or trying something new offers relaxation, laughter, and connection.

How to Play and Enjoy Board Games 

Choose games that are challenging enough to engage the mind but not so difficult that they cause frustration. Tips for a positive experience include:

✅ Play in teams to draw on a range of skills and abilities.

✅ Adjust game difficulty by reducing the number of spaces, cards, or pieces.

✅ Extend time limits, include breaks, or pace the game according to comfort.

✅ Focus on enjoyment and participation rather than winning.

Classic options like Snakes and Ladders, Chess, Checkers, or word and number games can all be adapted to suit ability levels.

How Board Games Help the Brain 

Board games engage multiple areas of the brain and strengthen executive function, memory, and reasoning:

🧠 Cognitive stimulation -  Many games challenge attention, planning, turn-taking, and memory recall.

✋ Fine motor skills – Handling pieces and moving them around the board engages hand-eye coordination.

💡 Problem-solving and creativity – Strategy and decision-making exercises logical and creative thinking.

🤝 Social engagement – Playing with others reduces stress, combats loneliness, and supports emotional wellbeing, which in turn benefits memory and cognition.

Gentle Competition for Connection 

Board games provide a safe way to enjoy friendly competition while practicing patience, taking turns, and interacting with others. They encourage focus, teamwork, and fun, making them a valuable tool in dementia care.