Month: February 2025

Thank you to Selena and Selena only.

Video games can help dementia patients to combat boredom and stay mentally active. It is important for seniors with dementia to engage in activities that help ease the feelings of anxiety and provide social and mental stimulation.

A research review by NIH reports many improvements in senior dementia patients after playing video games. The games therapy improved reaction memory, problem-solving, logical reasoning, hand-eye coordination, and observation among other cognitive abilities.

Older adults love the iPad because of its portability and ease of use. There are plenty of free iPad games for seniors but this article focuses on the best iPad games that are specifically popular among dementia patients.

Read From Forgetful to Unforgettable: Real Women Share Their Memory Transformation Stories.

7 Free iPad Games for Dementia Patients

1. Jigsaw Puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles is one of the most downloaded puzzle games of all time. This game helps seniors to exercise short-term memory and concentration. The key features of Jigsaw Puzzles include:

• Tons of free HD pictures from a variety of categories such as colors, flowers, nature, and animals.
• A new puzzle every day.
• You get coins by completing puzzles to spend them and get exclusive puzzles.
• Daily updated gallery so you never run out of puzzles.
• Custom backgrounds and mystery puzzles.

Have fun putting some jigsaw puzzles together on your iPad.

2. Hangman – Guess Words

Seniors can now enjoy the classic hangman game of guessing words on their iPads for free. This game is best for older adults who want to practice language skills and vocabulary. You have to guess the hidden word, and you can win the game by guessing the word before the figure of stick man is completed.

The key features of Hangman include:

• Ideal for seniors and the elderly
• Hundreds of free levels
• Attractive and colorful design yet simple and fun to play
• Option to enable or disable the sound

The game is available in different languages for players around the world. 

3. 4 Pics 1 Word

The best brainteaser game with millions of users worldwide. The game provides endless fun and is one of the most suitable iPad games for dementia patients. The game is simple, you have four pictures that have one word in common and you have to guess the word.

The best thing is no registration or complicated rules to play and new puzzles are added continuously. Play to find out why everyone loves the game.

4. Crossword – World’s Biggest

Crossword puzzles have many benefits for dementia patients and encourage problem-solving attitudes among Alzheimer’s patients. This game provides you with a new crossword challenge every day with a collection of hundreds of puzzles. You have a huge collection of unique clues as well as quests to complete and trophies to collect.

You have eight game modes to choose from and can earn the title of Crossword Superstar by completing the required challenges.

5. Word Search: Brain Training

The next entry in the free iPad games for seniors with dementia list is Word Search, a classical Scrabble game. Give your brain a workout by searching and finding the hidden words in the grid. Slide the letter up, down, left, right, or diagonally in any of the eight directions to find the words. The key features of Word Search include:

• 3 modes and 30+ categories of puzzles
• Multiple colorful themes
• Daily word challenge and infinite play with auto-generated grids

Train your brain and improve your vocabulary with Word Search.

6. Logo Quiz – Guess The Brand!

Find out how many company logos can you recognize by taking part in the Log Quiz. The main features of the game are:

• 2500 logos of different brands with 52 exciting levels
• You can learn more about brands after guessing the logo
• You have 5 hints to guess each logo
• Frequent updates

Get this popular free game and start guessing the logos.

7. Pictoword

Most popular word game featured in 30 countries. Fun game for seniors to test their brain and word guessing skills. You see a series of pictures that combine to create a word. This game provides great help to seniors who struggle to learn. The key features are:

• Word-guessing games with different levels of difficulty
• Trivia categories to test your knowledge of landmarks, objects, and TV
• Brain teasers and puzzles
• Offline play without WiFi

This game is great for seniors’ brain workouts. Puzzles are updated regularly so it never gets boring.

Video games are one of the favorite iPad activities for older adults. Share these free games with senior iPad users and they will love them.

8. Peak – Brain Training

Peak is a comprehensive brain-training app that offers a variety of daily mental exercises designed to stimulate cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving, focus, and reasoning. Its user-friendly interface and engaging games make it a great option for seniors with dementia. The key features of Peak include:

• Tailored exercises that adapt to the user’s progress and needs, ensuring challenges are achievable but stimulating.
• Over 45 fun and interactive games covering areas like memory, attention, problem-solving, and language skills.
• Insights and stats help users and caregivers track progress over time.
• Many games can be played without an internet connection, perfect for Difficulty adjusts gradually, making it accessible and non-intimidating for dementia patients.

Peak provides a balance of fun and brain stimulation, offering seniors an enjoyable way to stay mentally active and engaged.

9. MindMate

MindMate is an app specifically designed for individuals with dementia, offering a suite of engaging games and activities to support memory, problem-solving, and attention. Beyond gaming, the app provides resources to enhance overall cognitive and emotional well-being. The key features of MindMate include:

• Activities that target memory retention, logical reasoning, and attention span, tailored to dementia patients.
• Interactive reminders and to-do lists help patients stay organized and build routines.
• Exercise videos and nutrition tips are integrated to support a healthy lifestyle.
• Users can customize their experience based on their cognitive abilities and preferences.
• Most features are accessible without an internet connection, making it ideal for various settings.

MindMate offers a well-rounded approach to dementia care, combining fun, cognitive stimulation, and practical tools to improve quality of life.

Benefits of iPad Games for Dementia Patients

Cognitive Stimulation

iPad games engage the brain and help slow cognitive decline. Puzzles improve memory and problem-solving, word games like Hangman boost language skills, and trivia games strengthen recall. These activities challenge the mind in fun, manageable ways.

Emotional Well-Being

Games reduce stress, distract from anxiety, and combat feelings of isolation. Calming visuals and achievements lift moods, while multiplayer options encourage social interaction, fostering connection with caregivers and loved ones.

Improved Dexterity

Touchscreen games enhance fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Simple swipes and taps in games like Word Search or jigsaw puzzles keep hands active and build confidence with accessible, easy-to-use interfaces.

Read 5 Useful Tips for Navigating Dementia After 60 – The Advice of a Caring Daughter.

Discover our Free Online Crosswords & Games.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you ever wondered which iPad games might be suitable for dementia patients? Have you tried any of the games on our list? What about other games that are not listed but you think would be great for people with dementia?

The girl loves a white dress.

Is clutter silently holding you back from living the life you really want?

• You tell yourself you’ll get to it… someday.
• You push the piles of clutter aside, hoping they will magically disappear.
• You convince yourself it’s not that bad.

Until… a friend unexpectedly stops by for a quick visit. The doorbell rings. You freeze. You make a frantic attempt to shove piles of clutter into the nearest closet. Finally, you open the door, smiling, but deep down inside, you’re exhausted from your constant battle with clutter.

In that moment, the truth hits you. There’s no more hiding. You’re embarrassed, overwhelmed, and tired of pretending that everything’s okay.

It’s not.

It’s time to finally ditch the clutter!

If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re definitely not alone. Clutter creeps into our homes and lives, often without us realizing the toll it takes. It doesn’t just take up space; it drains our energy, creates unnecessary stress, and steals our peace of mind.

So how do you know when it’s time to stop ignoring the mess, reclaim your space, and take control of your life?

These 10 red flags are telling you it’s time to ditch the clutter – plus 10 simple ways to start taking action.

Red Flag #1: You Feel Stressed, Anxious, and Overwhelmed in Your Own Home

Your home should be a place of peace, not chaos. But instead of looking forward to coming home and unwinding, you feel instantly overwhelmed by the mess.

Action You Can Take:

Start with one small area that bothers you the most – a single drawer, one shelf, or a small closet. Declutter first, then organize. Designate a home for the things you intend to keep.

Red Flag #2: You Can’t Find Things When You Need Them

How much time do you waste looking for your keys, phone, glasses, or an important document?

When your home is cluttered and disorganized, it steals your time and energy. And in moments of urgency, when you need your phone or keys but can’t find them, it causes unnecessary stress and panic.

Action You Can Take:

Create a designated space for items you use every day and commit to putting them back in the same place each time. (e.g., a bowl for your keys and phone.)

Red Flag #3: Every Surface in Your Home Is Covered with Stuff

Your kitchen counters, coffee tables, nightstands, and desktop are like magnets for clutter – and it just keeps getting worse.

Action You Can Take:

Identify clutter-prone areas. Create a simple system and a five-minute daily routine to keep them clear. Use a decorative tray to organize just the essentials.

Red Flag #4: Piles of Paper Are Everywhere!

Mail, bills, receipts, takeout menus, magazines – paper clutter sneaks up quickly if not dealt with daily, creating visual chaos.

Action You Can Take:

Designate one central location for all incoming paper (e.g., your home office desktop). Set up a simple filing system that works for you. Immediately dispose of junk mail. Schedule a daily time to sort and a weekly time to process paperwork.

Red Flag #5: You Keep Saying, “I Have Nothing to Wear,” but Your Closet Is Overflowing

If picking out an outfit feels overwhelming and stressful, it’s a sign that you have too many choices, leading to decision fatigue.

Action You Can Take:

Declutter your closet by donating, selling, or discarding anything that:

• Doesn’t fit or is in disrepair.
• Hasn’t been worn in a year.
• Doesn’t look good or make you feel good when you wear it.

Create a highly functional and flexible capsule wardrobe with items you love to wear.

Red Flag #6: You Struggle to Let Go of Sentimental Items

You hold onto old love letters, your kids’ school projects, or family heirlooms – not because you use them, but because you feel guilty letting them go.

Action You Can Take:

Keep only the most meaningful items. Take photos of the rest and write a short story about them in a journal or photo album. Remember, the memories live in your heart, not in the objects.

Red Flag #7: You Avoid Having Guests Over

If you’re embarrassed when someone stops by or reluctant to invite people over, clutter might be standing in your way.

Action You Can Take:

Schedule a small gathering with friends in two weeks. Having a deadline will motivate you to declutter. Guests will see your progress, boosting your confidence on your decluttering journey.

Red Flag #8: You Procrastinate on Decluttering (Then Feel Guilty About It)

You keep telling yourself you’ll start next week or next month… then another year goes by. The longer you wait, the more overwhelming it becomes.

Action You Can Take:

Set a timer for 15 minutes each day and declutter one small area. Small wins build momentum, and even a few minutes a day adds up to big results over time.

Red Flag #9: Your Partner or Family Resists Decluttering and Undermines Your Efforts

You’re ready to clear the clutter, but your spouse or family isn’t on board.

Action You Can Take:

Start by decluttering your own belongings first. Be consistent. Make progress. Lead by example. Your efforts may inspire them to join in.

Red Flag #10: You Think You Need More Space (But You Really Need Less Stuff)

When your home feels too cramped, you might be tempted to buy more storage bins, rent a storage unit, or move to a bigger house.

But more space doesn’t solve the problem – less stuff does!

Action You Can Take:

Before considering storage solutions or a bigger home, declutter first. Then, set boundaries on what you allow into your space. Less stuff = more space.

Where Do You Start?

10 Small Steps to Make Decluttering Easier

1. Acknowledge you have a clutter problem.
2. Visualize how you want your home to look and feel.
3. Declutter in small daily bursts (even 15 minutes a day add up).
4. Follow the “one in, one out” rule for new purchases.
5. Set boundaries for sentimental clutter.
6. Create simple, repeatable habits to stay organized.
7. Celebrate progress, big or small.
8. Stop clutter before it starts – think before you buy.
9. Build morning and evening decluttering routines.
10. Acknowledge yourself for taking action – many never do!

A Few Final Thoughts:

Don’t let clutter steal your joy.

• Clutter isn’t just about stuff – it’s about how you feel in your home and your life.
• The good news? You have the power to change it.

If any of these red flags resonate with you, consider this your wake-up call.

Start small. Stay consistent. Create a home that feels like the sanctuary you deserve.

Your future self will thank you.

Also read, The Truth About Downsizing and Decluttering: What No One Tells You, but You Need to Know.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What’s your relationship with clutter? How often do you feel anxious to stay in your own home? Does your clutter seem too overwhelming? Which part scares you the most?

There is a growing trend for middle-aged women to embrace getting older by letting their hair go naturally grey. This trend is all over social media, fashion magazines, and the like. My response is, “Good for you! I salute you, sister, but don’t judge me if I keep coloring my hair.”

What If You Don’t Want to Go Grey?

There seems to be a backlash on women like me, who are perfectly happy with their choice to continue to color their hair. This isn’t a conspiracy against feminism; in fact, this is a vote for letting women choose what they want to do with their body and what grows from it.

I am embracing growing older, but admittedly, I want to look and feel good doing it. So, yes, I exercise, wear makeup, and dye my hair. More and more, however, as I scroll through social media, women who continue to maintain some kind of a beauty routine as they approach their golden years seem to be ridiculed and publicly berated.

The Women’s Movement Influence

This is reminiscent of the bra burnings of the 1970s when women protested the Miss America Pageant because they felt that the pageant, with its focus on beauty and shape, was too exploitive of women. You were either for women’s rights (bra burners) or against them (everyone else), with nothing in between. This part of history can be seen as the start of the Women’s Movement when women wanted to be known for more than their looks and have a career other than that of housewife.

And, indeed, it was this movement that I witnessed growing up that convinced me that I could have a career, earn my own money, and not be reliant on a husband. It was because of these bra burners and the pioneers of the Equal Rights Amendment that I was able to climb the corporate ladder and buy my own house.

But now, as a new generation – my generation – of women carry the torch forward, determined to set an example of feminism in their golden years, the underlying mission seems to have been forgotten: preventing the discrimination of women!

The movement was all about women discovering and standing up for themselves. Everybody is a unique being. For some reason, though, if you didn’t burn your bra in the 1970s, or don’t let your hair go gray in 2025, you are betraying women and not asserting your rights. Nothing can be farther from the truth.

Empowering Yourself

There are numerous reasons to let my hair go grey. Expense, time, and if you believe everything you read, going grey gives you a feeling of empowerment. Perhaps it’s just me, but my hair color doesn’t give me a sense of empowerment; what empowers me is my ability to make my own choices, to stand up for myself, and to truly be an independent contributing member of society.

For me, continuing to color my hair fits in with the movement’s initial thesis: all women can be who they want to be; we are individuals with equal rights and opportunities.

Choosing your hair color and style is an individual preference. I support women who go au naturel. All I ask is for that same sort of tolerance should I choose a different route (or should I say root?). As Shirley Chisolm said, “We must reject not only the stereotypes that others hold of us, but also the stereotypes that we hold of ourselves.” So, to coin a phrase from the 1970s, “Women Unite” and let’s not let a few grey hairs divide us.

Also read, Thinking About Going Grey? Here’s What to Really Expect.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Do you plan on going grey or dye until you die? How has the 1970s Women’s Movement influenced you? When it comes to your own individual style, do you tend to go with the trends, or do you have a signature style that has been with you for years?