Memory Games for Older People

Memory Hooks

• Employ the imagination when it is important to remember something such as where the car is parked. For example, imagine the car parked on a huge number when parking in a numbered lot. The more imaginative the image, the easier to recall the information when needed.

Matching Pairs

• This game uses an ordinary deck of cards to play the game memory. The game can be played with others or alone. Remove two of the four suits from a deck of cards. Shuffle the cards and then lay the cards face down on a table. Turn over one card at a time, and then return the card to its former position. Continue turning and returning cards until a mate is identified. Remove the pair from the card layout; continue until all the cards are matched. Upon improving, add another suit of cards. This game helps to strengthen short-term memory.

Jigsaw Puzzles

• Study the picture on the front of the box. Mix up the jigsaw pieces and put the puzzle together without referring to the picture. This game improves concentration as well as memory. Make the game more complicated by choosing puzzles with more pieces.

Crossword Puzzles

• Crossword puzzles and word games help to link an idea to a particular word. This exercise is a good "brain game" to relax and associate a word to a statement. Crossword puzzles keep the brain agile and train the brain to recall facts from long-term memory.