Printable Puzzles for Dementia, Free Large Print
Four free easy puzzles in extra-large print: two simple word searches, a Finish the Saying game and a Things That Go Together matching page.
These printable activities are made for adults living with dementia or memory loss, and for the family members and care staff who sit with them. Looking for ideas rather than downloads? See our guide to dementia activities that work in memory care.
The two easy word searches (Christmas Joy and Cozy Winter) use a small 10 x 10 grid, only eight short words, very large letters and words that run only across and down. Finish the Saying uses ten old proverbs ("A stitch in time...") that many people remember long after other things have faded. Things That Go Together asks people to match everyday pairs like salt and pepper. None of the pages are childish: the designs are clean and grown-up, because dignity matters.
These are activities for enjoyment and connection. They are not a treatment, a test or a way to measure memory, and there is no score.
The printables
Christmas Joy word search
Large print word search, 10 x 10 grid, 8 words (across and down only). Answer key on page 2.
Cozy Winter word search
Large print word search, 10 x 10 grid, 8 words (across and down only). Answer key on page 2.
Finish the Saying
10 familiar old sayings to finish out loud, set in extra-large type. Answers on page 2.
Things That Go Together
Match 10 everyday pairs (salt and pepper, cup and saucer) by drawing a line. Answers on page 2.
How activity directors use it
Offer one page at a time, at a table with good light, and sit beside the person rather than across from them. Read the instructions aloud. If someone finds a word search frustrating, switch to Finish the Saying, which needs no reading at all when you read the first half aloud. Any answer that makes sense is a good answer; "a stitch in time saves a button" deserves a laugh, not a correction.
In a group, the matching page works well on a large board: read a word from the left and let the group call out its partner. Five or ten minutes is plenty. Stop while it is still enjoyable.
Tips for easier puzzles
- Print at 100% on bright white paper; avoid colored paper, which lowers contrast.
- Use a thick felt-tip pen or a marker instead of a pencil; the line is easier to see.
- Fold the page so only the grid or only one half shows at a time.
- Highlight the first letter of each word in the grid to give a head start.
- See our guide to puzzles for seniors with low vision for type size and lighting tips.
Printing and sharing
Printing tip: when the print window opens, choose Actual size or 100% so the letters print as large as they were made (every letter is at least 16 point). Make as many copies as you need for your family, residents or group.
Newsletter editors: you are welcome to reprint these puzzles in a free senior center, library, church or community newsletter, as long as the credit line at the foot of the page stays on. Please don't sell them or post the PDF files elsewhere; link to this page instead. Want puzzles sized for your layout every issue? See free puzzles for your newsletter.
These printables are for enjoyment and conversation. They are not medical advice or treatment.
Get 15 more free puzzles
Our free large print puzzle pack has 16 pages: two more word searches, a crossword, a cryptogram, an easy sudoku, a cozy mini-mystery and 1976 trivia. Tell us where to send it.
Want a whole book?
Memory Activity Book for Seniors. Gentle large print puzzles and word games for adults who enjoy an easier page.