Jigsaw Puzzles

I really like doing puzzles. I don't do very many, but I like to take a crack at one at least every Christmas.  On the day after Thanksgiving I like to start the movie National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and do a puzzle in the living room. I keep the movie going, over and over, and keep the puzzle going.  It's fun!

Research suggests that engaging in jigsaw puzzles offers several cognitive benefits for the elderly (and by elderly I think it means pretty much anyone who is still checking this blog), helping to maintain and even improve brain function. Here's a summary of the key findings:

1. Cognitive Stimulation: Jigsaw puzzles engage various cognitive processes, such as memory, problem-solving, visual-spatial reasoning, and attention. Regular engagement in these activities helps keep the brain active and may delay cognitive decline associated with aging.

2. Memory Improvement: Solving puzzles can enhance both short-term and long-term memory by requiring the recollection of shapes, colors, and patterns. This helps improve neural connections, which are essential for memory retention.

3. Delay in Dementia and Alzheimer's Symptoms: Some studies suggest that mentally stimulating activities, like puzzles, can reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's by promoting neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections and adapt.

4. Reduction in Stress and Anxiety: Puzzles offer a calming and meditative experience, reducing stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact cognitive function. Lower stress levels are linked to better cognitive health.

5. Social Interaction: Doing puzzles in a group setting or as part of a club can increase social interaction, which is also associated with better cognitive outcomes and reduced risk of cognitive decline.

6. Hand-Eye Coordination: Jigsaw puzzles require precise movements, helping to improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, which are critical for maintaining overall physical and mental health in the elderly.

Overall, incorporating jigsaw puzzles as part of a regular routine for older adults can provide a holistic cognitive workout, contributing to better mental health and cognitive resilience.  Here's a tiny sample of published research on jigsaw puzzles:

Of course, there is no shortage of Disney puzzles.  Lissa has the good shirt on, the Disney related pictures in the background, and a 2,000 piece puzzle.  2,000!!!  That many pieces requires an entire Christmas break to complete.

Here's another one of Lissa.  She's got a good puzzle in hand and she's wearing a nice, classic Disney sweatshirt even though it's roughly 97 degrees outside!

Here's one of me.  I'm wearing a Pizza Planet shirt while watching a Disneyland walkthrough video on YouTube.  The puzzle I'm holding is good too.

Why am I holding this puzzle on my head?  It's so you can see my Goofy "World's Greatest Outdoorsman" shirt. Since I don't often go outdoors I took this picture by a simulated outdoors.  Not pictured: Marty the turtle.

One time I went to the parks and it was chilly in the evening!  This was in May when the weather in Southern California is supposed to be pleasant.  It was unseasonable cool that year and I was uncharacteristically unprepared. It worked out, though, because I got this nice sweatshirt.  Oh, and the puzzle is good too.

Here's a pic of a completed 2,000 piece puzzle.  Again, 2,000 is a lot of pieces. It takes a lot of surface space (big table) and a lot of patience.  This was a good puzzle. 

Quite a few years ago they had a series of puzzles for sale at the parks. They were fun to look at and I took pics of a few. Never bought one, though.  Maybe this trip I'll find a nice puzzle I can do during Christmas.

And here is one of my favorite clips from the TV show Parks and Recreation. The town has some unused land and they are trying to figure out what to do with it.  This guy comes into Leslie's office with a great idea!  The guy turns up once in a while during the series and he's always doing things a bit off from normal.  He runs a pawn shop, abuses nitrous oxide, runs an illegal tattoo parlor, and a few other things.  But his idea for the land is spot-on!

Now the long story:

Switching Gears: Big Thunder Mountain

With their churro dreams temporarily dashed, the families regrouped and decided to hop on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad instead.

"Alright, churros later, thrills now!" Scot said, clapping his hands. "Who’s ready for the wildest ride in the wilderness?"

"Let's do it!" Jenna shouted, leading the way toward the ride entrance.

Surprisingly, the wait was less than five minutes, but that didn’t stop the group from finding something to grumble about.

"This line is moving too slow!" Amelia said, tapping her foot impatiently.

"Yeah, come on, Disneyland," Brandon added, crossing his arms. "Five whole minutes? We’ve got magic to experience!"

Once they got to the loading area, Scot reached into his pocket to count his coins and nearly jumped when he realized half of them were missing. He looked over just in time to see Brandon casually tossing coins into the water below, making wishes with each plop.

"Brandon!" Scot called, trying to sound stern but struggling to hold back a laugh. "Those aren’t magic wishing coins, you know!"

"Well, they are now!" Brandon grinned. "I wished for churros and no lines."

"Good luck with that," Scot said, shaking his head as he took Brandon’s hand to guide him onto the ride.