How Memory Lane Games Brings Joy and Connection to Dementia Care

How it all began

Brian shares how the company was born out of personal experience. A family friend caring for her father with dementia had been using puzzle books but wanted something digital, simple, and familiar. That request led to the earliest Memory Lane Games prototypes.

As Brian put it, “There was a real need for something designed specifically for people with dementia that did not feel patronising or complicated.”

From there the team discovered how powerful reminiscence could be, especially for people with memory loss. Local counsellors and dementia experts encouraged them to explore further, and Memory Lane Games was formed.

 

Creating games that feel good

The design focuses on comfort, recognition, and enjoyment. Brian explains that the team worked closely with professionals and families to understand what tends to work well for people living with dementia.

“If something feels familiar people relax, enjoy the moment and feel successful,” he says. This became the foundation of their approach.

Rather than simply creating quizzes they developed gentle, supportive games that spark conversation. These include photo prompts, local interest themes, and recognisable cultural memories from different generations.

 

Continue reading or CLICK HERE to watch the full interview.

 

Designed for care settings and at home

Memory Lane Games is now used internationally in care settings, community groups, and family homes. It is also proving valuable within live-in care where one-to-one support allows for meaningful engagement throughout the day.

Games can be personalised for places, interests, and periods of someone’s life which helps carers build rapport quickly. This is particularly helpful in live-in care where understanding a client’s preferences strengthens the relationship and supports wellbeing.

The app is also designed for carers who may not have much time. Sessions can last a few minutes or longer depending on the person’s interest and energy.

 

Why games matter for dementia support

Brian and Luca explore why the simple act of play is so effective. Games help:

• Reduce anxiety
• Create shared moments with loved ones
• Build confidence through gentle success
• Encourage conversation and recall
• Support care professionals during activities

Brian adds that many carers report improved engagement even in people who are normally withdrawn. With live-in care especially these moments can become part of a daily routine that brings purpose and calm.

 

Practical takeaways

Choose familiar themes

Games linked to a person’s past or local area often lead to the strongest reactions.

 

Keep sessions short and positive

A few minutes of shared enjoyment can be enough to lift someone’s mood.

 

Use games to build connections

Carers can learn so much from a person’s responses including preferences, memories, and triggers.

 

Combine with live-in care

When used alongside high quality live-in care games can help structure the day and maintain emotional wellbeing.

 

Thank you to Brian Hall

A warm thank you to Brian Hall, Executive Chair at Memory Lane Games, for joining Luca Rado on The Care Cast and sharing how simple game design can make such a meaningful difference.

The Memory Lane Games app is downloadable in your app store.

 

For further guidance or to explore how live-in care can support your family, contact The Live In Care Company for more information on live-in care services, call us on 0345 1258 975.