The well-being of people with dementia: exploring the role of board games

Journal title PSICOLOGIA DELLA SALUTE
Author/s Veronica Guardabassi, Paola Nicolini
Publishing Year 2026 Issue 2026/2
Language Italian Pages 12 P. 131-142 File size 131 KB
DOI 10.3280/PDS2026-002008
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The rise in the average age of the population has highlighted the need to address the health and social challenges faced by older people, with a particular focus on dementia diagnosis. At present, this disease is incurable. Consequently, there is a strong focus on research into non-pharmacological interventions to improve quality of life. A small number of studies has identified board games as a means of cognitive stimulation and promoting well-being in people living with dementia. The data collection presented here, which is still in the form of a pilot study, suggests that more research should be done into how board games can promote the well-being of people diagnosed with dementia. This research should look at modern board games and how social and educational staff can get involved in running these activities. Implications for research and caregiving practice will be discussed.

Keywords: Board games, cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, third age, Alzheimer, dementia.

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Veronica Guardabassi, Paola Nicolini, Il benessere delle persone con diagnosi di demenza: esplorando il ruolo dei giochi da tavolo in "PSICOLOGIA DELLA SALUTE" 2/2026, pp 131-142, DOI: 10.3280/PDS2026-002008