As diversional therapists we know that when a loved one enters the early stages of dementia, meaningful recreation takes on real therapeutic value.
Board games, role-playing games and online adaptations provide not only cognitive stimulation but important social moments.
Research shows that older adults who play board games show improved cognition, social participation and mood.
For someone experiencing early mild cognitive impairment or early-onset dementia, start with familiar, low-complexity games that encourage conversation and choice.
Titles like Sequence, Ticket to Ride, or a gentle role-play one-shot (e.g., Honey Heist or simplified D&D) can give structure and joy.
BoardGameGeek lists popular accessible titles — you might use that to pick what appeals.
Online versions via BoardGameArena allow remote friends or family to join easily.
We might design a weekly “game circle” that starts with a check-in (how are you feeling today?), a warm-up (simple dice roll or card draw), then play for 30-45 minutes, followed by a debrief:
“What did you enjoy?”
“What surprised you?”
That mirrors diversional therapy practice of reflection and meaning-making.
Over time the social connections matter as much as the cognitive benefits.
A standard approach that I look for with clients: a hybrid board-game plus reminiscence session, showing reductions in loneliness and anxiety among older adults.
An online/remote option is also key because the person may not always want to or be able to attend face-to-face.
Ask us about how we can build a social circle in a lifelong hobby for you or the person in your care regardless of age or ability. If we can’t personally deliver a program for you, we will refer you to someone who can regardless of location in Australia.
Email us: gametherapynetwork@gmail.com