The benefits of crossword puzzles for dementia patients have been widely discussed over recent years. This is because brain-training exercises can reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Reducing cognitive decline with crossword puzzles
There is something very satisfying about completing a crossword puzzle. However, this isn’t the only benefit. Keeping your brain active will not cure diseases such as dementia but it can keep the mind sharper for longer.
Researchers from the University of Exeter and Kings College London surveyed more than 17,000 healthy people above the age of 50. They investigated how often they do crossword puzzles and also tested various key cognitive functions, such as memory, reasoning, and attention.
The results showed that those who regularly engaged in brain-training exercises, such as crossword puzzles, showed cognition levels equal to someone 10 years younger than them. Furthermore, this finding has been repeated in many other studies over the years. This clearly shows the benefits of crossword puzzles for dementia patients.
Improve your memory in later life
Crossword puzzle clues and answers often include uncommon words to make the puzzle more difficult. Therefore, if you’re not familiar with a word, over time, you’ll increase your vocabulary with new and interesting words.
This contributes to improving memory for dementia patients, even in later life. It also encourages people to put their ‘thinking hats’ on and keep problem-solving skills sharp!
Some studies looking into crossword puzzles for dementia patients show a person only needs to work on crossword puzzles for a total of 90 minutes per week in order to both retain and improve their cognition.
Crossword puzzles boost your mood
Despite the frustration you might feel when you can’t figure out a clue, brain-training exercises can provide a way for you to turn down the noise and relax. Not to mention that the satisfaction of completing one releases serotonin and dopamine. When these chemicals are released in the brain they can significantly boost your mood!
It is widely recognised that people living with dementia experience an increase in depression. Therefore, it is important to find hobbies and interests to combat this. A simple weekly crossword puzzle for dementia patients can really help in this department.
Dementia Care at Stanfield Nursing Home
If you would like to learn more about the specialist dementia care we provide at Stanfield Nursing Home, please visit our website today. Alternatively, you can call 01905 420 459 to speak to a member of our helpful and friendly team. You can also check out our social media for daily updates.
If you have found this useful, you may wish to read our blog about Improving Health With Regular Exercise and Gardening.