Designing Tabletop Activities for People Living with Dementia
Summary:
A deep dive into creating tabletop experiences for those with dementia. Learn practical techniques to adapt challenge levels, offer visual cues, and foster meaningful social connections through play.
Description:
How do we create meaningful play when memory and processing speed decline? This workshop moves from theory to practice. Participants will engage in a mini-design sprint, applying accessibility-first concepts to existing game loops. We will cover how to adapt challenge levels, use physical cues to guide players, and foster social connection without the stress of complex rules. Whether you are building a new game or adapting a classic for a loved one with cognitive challenges, you will leave with a toolkit of inclusive design patterns. Perfect for designers, occupational therapists, and caregivers seeking to engage with their loved ones.
Learn to design tabletop activities for people with cognitive needs. Explore how accessibility-first puzzles improve engagement for all players and why inclusive design is the future of gaming.
Description:
Tabletop gaming is for everyone, yet players with cognitive needs are often left behind. This workshop introduces the "Accessibility-First" framework for puzzle and game design, with a focus on dementia-inclusive principles. We will discuss the importance of reducing "visual noise," the psychology of tactile feedback, and how to create flow moments that enable deep focus. This session is ideal for aspiring designers and community leaders who want to make their gaming tables more welcoming. You will leave with a new perspective on how intentional design choices can remove barriers and foster joy for players of all cognitive abilities.