While LEGOS are most often associated with children as a way to stimulate creativity and imagination, did you also know that they can be very useful in the treatment of older adults with dementia?
LEGO bricks can be a highly effective and engaging tool for older adults with dementia, offering a range of cognitive, emotional, and physical benefits. Building with LEGOs stimulates the brain by encouraging memory recall, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning. Simple tasks such as sorting bricks by color or shape can also reinforce basic recognition and classification skills. These activities provide a gentle yet effective form of cognitive stimulation that can help maintain mental function for longer periods.
In addition to cognitive benefits, using LEGOs supports fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which are often challenged by the progression of dementia. Handling the small bricks encourages dexterity and can help maintain mobility in the fingers and hands. For those with more limited physical ability, larger bricks such as LEGO Duplo offer an accessible alternative.
Emotionally, LEGO activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose. The process of building something, even something small or simple, often boosts confidence and reduces stress. The tactile and repetitive nature of the activity has a calming effect, similar to knitting or assembling puzzles, and can be particularly soothing for individuals experiencing agitation or anxiety.
LEGO building also offers a valuable opportunity for social engagement. Whether working on a collaborative project or simply building side-by-side, individuals are encouraged to communicate and connect.
AARP has a story with more details on LEGOS and the positive impact on individuals with dementia. To read it, CLICK HERE.