Picture pairs
Find the two pictures that are the same. Pictures can stay showing.
Shadow Match: a Gentle Picture Game
Look at the shadow and tap the picture that makes it.
About shadow match
Shadow matching is a familiar activity from printed worksheets, here with large pictures and nothing to print. A soft shadow sits at the top of the screen and two, three or four pictures wait below. Tap the one that makes the shadow. Shapes like a bicycle, an umbrella or a teacup are easy to talk about too.
How to play shadow match
- Choose two, three or four pictures to pick from. Two is the simplest.
- Look at the shadow together. What shape is it? Is it tall or round?
- Tap the picture that makes the shadow. Its name appears under the shadow.
- If a different picture is tapped, the game simply names it and waits. Take your time.
- Tap "Next shadow" when you are ready for another.
Tips for playing together
- Trace the outline of the shadow with a finger and talk about the shape.
- If shadows feel hard today, switch to Find the same, where the pictures look alike.
- Talk about the picture once it is found: "We had an umbrella like that."
New to playing with someone who has dementia? Read how to play games together, including what to do if they lose interest.
Questions and answers
Is there a timer or a score?
No. There is no clock, score, move counter or losing. You can stop at any moment, and stopping halfway is a perfectly good way to finish.
Is shadow matching good for people with dementia?
It can be a pleasant, simple activity for some people, especially in the earlier stages. Shapes are easier to recognize than words. It is for enjoyment and conversation, not a test, and it does not treat or slow dementia. If it causes frustration, try Find the same or simply look at pictures together.
What happens if the wrong picture is tapped?
Nothing unpleasant. There is no buzzer, red cross or shaking. The game names the picture that was tapped and waits for the next tap.
Is it free, and do I need to sign up?
Yes, it is free, and there is no account, sign-up or download. It works in the web browser on a phone, tablet or computer.
Is there an app version of this game?
Not of this game. The free Golden Moments app for iPhone, iPad and Android has gentle picture matching with large tiles and family photos you choose, and it works offline. This game stays free here in your browser.
Take these games with you
The free Golden Moments app for iPhone, iPad and Android: large picture tiles, games with your own family photos, and picture packs that work without Wi‑Fi. No account, ads, timer or score.
More gentle games
Find the same
Look at the picture at the top and tap the same one below.
Picture puzzle
Tap two pieces to swap them until the picture is whole.