Cognitive and Socio-Emotional Benefits of Puzzle Working in Older Adults

Mei Ling Lin, Josue David Lopez, Andres Silva, Kinza Ali, Veronica Yvonne Brookshaw, Megan Goldner Martinez, Dahlia Cavazos Castillo

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

Puzzles are mental exercises that enhance cognitive function. Functional cognition is critical for older adults to be able to engage in activities of daily living (ADL) and is linked to positive aging. This paper reports participation by Hispanic older adults in puzzle working and explores the relationship between the reported need for assistance with ADL and puzzles participation. Survey findings from 156 older adults reveal that puzzle working not only provides an opportunity to exercise their mind to solve cognitive challenges, but also elicits emotional and social benefits. The reported need for assistance with ADL is not a statistically significant predictor of participation in puzzle working, indicating that regardless of the level of assistance senior adults need for ADL, they can participate in puzzle working.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)348-363
Number of pages16
JournalActivities, Adaptation and Aging
Volume47
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023

Keywords

  • Puzzle working
  • activities of daily living (ADL)
  • older adults

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health Professions (miscellaneous)
  • Gerontology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology

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