Puzzling for Progress: How Jigsaw Puzzles Can Help Those With Dementia

Dementia can be a challenging journey for both the person and their loved ones. While there's no cure, there are ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. One surprising yet effective tool? Jigsaw puzzles!

Right at Home East Lancashire and Ribble Valley have created their own Puzzle Lending Library, based at their office in Wilpshire. The library will be open to the local community and provide a range of engaging puzzles to help someone living with dementia at home. Once finished, just bring it back and select another. We have always been passionate about supporting individual's living with dementia, creating events or spaces aimed at easing loneliness and isolation. 

Here's how this simple activity can be a powerful ally in supporting someone with dementia:

• Minds in Motion: Completing a puzzle requires visual-spatial reasoning, which means both sides of the brain are working together. This mental workout can help maintain cognitive function and memory.

• Memory Boost: Finding the right piece involves recalling shapes, colours, and where they might fit. This can stimulate short-term memory and help with recognition.

• Calming Comfort: The repetitive nature and sense of accomplishment from finishing a puzzle can be very therapeutic. It can promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and create a feeling of well-being.

• Social Engagement: Working on a puzzle together can be a wonderful shared activity for patients and caregivers. It fosters conversation, reminiscing, and strengthens social bonds.

Tips for Puzzle Power:

• Choose Carefully: Select puzzles with larger, high-contrast pieces that are easier to handle. Opt for images with personal significance to trigger memories and spark conversation.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Focus on the joy of the process, not just the finished product. Acknowledge and praise every piece placed correctly.
• Make it Fun: Work on the puzzle together, have breaks, and most importantly, keep it lighthearted and enjoyable.

Here are some reasons to love a puzzle lending library:

• Endless Variety: No more getting stuck with puzzles you don't love. Borrow a new challenge whenever the mood strikes!
• Save Money: Skip the expensive store-bought puzzles and explore a vast collection without breaking the bank.
• Reduce Waste: Say goodbye to that ever-growing pile of half-finished puzzles taking up space in your closet.
• Connect with Your Community: Meet fellow puzzle enthusiasts, share recommendations, and discover hidden gems in the library's collection.

Jigsaw puzzles are a simple, affordable, and engaging way to support someone with dementia. So next time you're looking for an activity, consider the power of a puzzle!

Right at Home East Lancashire and Ribble Valley, offer a person-centred Dementia Service aimed to support each individual to remain at home, keeping them in familiar surroundings, in the home they love.