It takes a lot of effort to help stroke victims retrain their memory. Short-term memory loss is a huge hurdle to overcome and the road ahead may seem long and arduous. Luckily, playing games can help you guide a relative whilst rehabilitating their memory. Not sure what we mean? Here are some ways to help a relative retrain their memory.
Any sort of game that utilizes visual learning is a great learning outlet. Visual aids help the brain restore some cognitive ability and associate words to literal objects. It’s a slow process but it helps clearly distinguish separate objects.
Examples of visual games
- Pairs: A game where players try to pick two of the same cards. Excellent for training memory to recognize multiple objects.
- Spot the Difference: A great way for the brain to pick out the more detailed differences between similar pictures. It helps the brain improve both visual and spatial awareness.
Aside from visual aids, word-based games are also beneficial to retrain memory. When handling long-term memory loss, your relative may need to re-learn basic analytical and thinking skills and word games are excellent for improving this.
Examples of word games
- Word searches: This game forces the player to focus on looking for individual characters and clues. It helps the brain pick up key analysing techniques and improves basic hand-eye coordination too.
- Mnemonics: Nothing stays sharper in the mind than a short, catchy tune. Using mnemonics to learn groups of items helps them stay fresh in the mind without overwhelming it. It is also an enjoyable way to see how creative you can be with everyday topics.
It may seem basic but repetitive games are excellent for remembering information. The constant recycling of the same information helps the brain analyse and absorb everyday processes.
Examples of repetition games
- Memory Signals: A basic game that slowly adds more commands one step at a time. It tests the brain’s analytical and cognitive skills and how far and quick it can process information. An advanced but enjoyable game.
- Counting Games: Any game that involves counting is worth trying. Whether it’s counting money or playing Sudoku, it forces the brain to increases its workload. It stimulates the mind and helps it slowly regain more cognitive function
As always, these games can be easily found online or in magazines at most bookstores and newspaper sellers. They can be helpful to a certain degree and they should be played as part of a strategy set up by a qualified therapist. Adding these to a therapist’s plan ensures that retraining the brain is not always hard work and can be diverting too!
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This document does not constitute the practice of medical consultation nor medical advice. Always seek the advice of your treating physician and/or specialist. If you suspect that you are experiencing symptoms of stroke, call for an ambulance immediately.
