Video games are now one of the most popular forms of entertainment, with some attracting millions of players worldwide. And who doesn’t like playing games? Word games in particular are a great, fun way for people with aphasia and their caregivers to play with words. These games can be downloaded onto a mobile phone or tablet, and some of them can even be played with more than one person. That means people with aphasia, their caregivers, and friends can all participate. And the best part: They’re available for free.
Pictoword
Free
Do you remember say-what-you-see puzzles? Pictoword is a collection of them in a phone app game. For this solo game, you are given two different pictures, and it’s up to you to figure out what they mean when they’re together. It’s a neat challenge that gets harder as you progress.
Words with Friends
Free
If you like Scrabble, then you’ll love Words with Friends. It’s the same game but on your phone or tablet. You can invite your friends and family to play a game with you or play with new people across the country. All you need is an internet connection. And since it’s entirely on your phone, you can put it down when you’re busy, and pick it back up when you have time.
Typeshift
Free
This clever game takes word searches and flips them on their head. Instead of searching for words on a grid of letters, players move columns of letters to form words, kind of like a combination lock. It’s simple to learn but challenging enough to keep you thinking for hours.
Draw Something
Free
Tap into your inner artist and start doodling with Draw Something. This Pictionary-like game lets users pick which words they would like to draw, with different levels of difficulty.
Tetris
Free
Unlike the other entries, Tetris isn’t a word game — but it’s a classic. The game itself hasn’t really changed since the ‘80s, but this shape-based puzzle game is still fun and challenging. In its classic form, this video game is played solo, but an internet connection enables a new, competitive feature, which allows you to play against others in a massive, engaged community.
Games aren’t just a fun hobby; they’re a way connect with friends, family, and people all over the world, aphasia or not. Do you have a favorite game? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter!
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Need a support skype group for my son. He is a 37 year old stroke survivor. He needs a group that are close to his age so he can better identify with them.
Hi Don! We have great news for you! We provide several online support sessions every week through our program Virtual Connections! You can find more information and register for sessions at https://staging.lingraphica.com/virtual-connections-info/. Participants are a wide range of ages, including many folks who are younger, like your son. Hope to see you there! If you need help registering or would like more information about the sessions, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (888) 965-6005!