Dementia-friendly Word Games – Countries and States

Printable Split Words Activity.

Short Description:

Each word in the grid is divided into two parts. Pair them to make words related to the theme of either European Countries or US states.

Cross them off as you find them, and write the finished words on the lines below the grid.

Directions for Caregivers:

Print word game sheets, explain the activity, and be on hand to give help if needed. You could point out the first part of the word and pair it with one of the other words at a time until it sounds right. As an added activity have a look at a map and find the states and countries.

Early-stage memory care/dementia.

Print word game sheets, explain the exercise, and be on hand to give help. If needed, describe the word being searched for or point out the first half of a word. Check out where the countries and states are on a map.

Mid-stage memory care/dementia

Point out the first half of a word if needed. You can sound out the options aloud, pair the first part with each option, and get to the word that sounds right.

Encourage as much active participation as possible. If a person cannot write, rather than you crossing out words as you find them (even if the person can’t write, they may be able to cross a word out), you can assist further by indicating with your finger where to put the X. It may help to have a map as a reminder to the person of the theme.

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About this Activity

For success with this dementia-friendly word games activity, remember that people with dementia may take longer to complete tasks because their brains process information more slowly.

Dementia affects memory, attention, and problem-solving, making it harder for people with dementia to focus, remember steps, or make decisions. They might need extra time to understand what they are doing and how to complete the task. Patience and support can help them feel more confident and less frustrated. Offer more hints and assistance if needed.

If you are with someone who needs more guidance in managing this split-word activity, point out the first part of a word. Then, together, try to match it with the other options verbally, one at a time, until you get to the one that sounds right.

If you enjoyed this activity, click here to visit our word games section, which includes many dementia-friendly word games.