Playing card games isn’t just a leisure activity - it’s an excellent way to keep the brain active, engaged, and socially connected. With a few simple adaptations, card games can be tailored to different abilities, making them accessible and enjoyable for people living with dementia.

Getting Started with Card Games 

Choose games that match your comfort level - challenging enough to be stimulating, but not overwhelming.

• Simple variations – such as turning over two cards and keeping the highest number.

• Sorting games – group cards by suit, colour, or number.

• Matching games – lay out a few cards face down and try to find the pairs.

• Solitaire – a solo game that supports attention and number recognition.

For accessibility, use extra-large playing cards if vision or dexterity is a challenge, or explore digital card games on tablets and smartphones for easier play.

Brain Benefits of Card Games 

Card games stimulate multiple parts of the brain, providing both cognitive and physical benefits:

🧠 Cognitive skills – concentration, attention, problem-solving, reasoning, and decision-making.

🔢 Memory & quick recall – rehearsing numbers, colours, and patterns strengthens working memory.

👁 Visual processing – recognizing suits and shapes engages the occipital and parietal lobes.

✋ Fine motor skills – shuffling and handling cards improve coordination and dexterity.

😊 Wellbeing – the social aspect of card games encourages connection, reduces isolation, and sparks enjoyment.

Keeping It Fun and Accessible 

The goal is not competition, but enjoyment and brain engagement. Adapting rules, using fewer cards, or playing cooperatively can make the game more rewarding. Whether with friends, family, or solo, card games can bring laughter, connection, and a gentle brain workout.