We recently interviewed Wentworth Ambassador George Puzzles and his daughter, Suzanne, to help understand why our wooden puzzles have been a hero for helping George with his dementia diagnosis. George’s love of puzzling has not only remained strong but has become a meaningful part of his daily routine.
In our conversation, his daughter shares how jigsaw puzzles bring him joy, support his well-being, and offer a sense of calm and accomplishment. We hope his story offers insight, encouragement, and a deeper appreciation for the power of mindful activities like puzzling and the benefits that adult jigsaw puzzles can provide.
Can you tell us a little bit about George and his journey with dementia?
At first, I didn’t recognize the signs, it was all new to me. George has always been strong-willed, which served him well in his career but became more challenging with dementia. Without medication options, it’s taken firm guidance and creativity to manage his behaviour and support him in a positive way.
When was George first introduced to puzzles and why?
His medical team recommended puzzles, and I was surprised by how much he loved them. A Wentworth Wooden Puzzle changed everything, he focused for hours, and it quickly became a daily essential.
Read our article on why wooden puzzles are good for people with dementia.
What role do puzzles play in George’s daily life?
They keep him safely occupied and engaged. Without them, George tends to seek out trouble, like trying to access tools we've had to lock away. Puzzles reduce those behaviours and bring him joy.
How does George feel when puzzling?
He’s calm, focused, and excited with every piece. He admires the finished image and genuinely loves the experience.
Have puzzles helped you manage any particular symptoms or feelings related to dementia?
Absolutely. When he’s not puzzling, George can get frustrated and have tantrums. His routine—smoothie, heated blanket, favourite chair, then puzzling—keeps him grounded and content.
Are there any specific features of Wentworth puzzles that you find especially helpful or enjoyable?
George can handle most sizes, though he prefers 100-piece puzzles with distinct background changes and non-repetitive patterns. He relies on the reference photo and always starts with the border—something he even shared in a CBS interview. I love that Wentworth offers the same images in multiple sizes, which other brands don’t.
What would you say to someone recently diagnosed with dementia who is feeling uncertain or overwhelmed?
Join a support group and start reading to understand what’s ahead. Build a strong medical team, and definitely try puzzles—they’ve been a lifesaver for us. George’s team strongly advised against using the TV as a babysitter, and puzzles have been a much better alternative.
Do you have a favourite puzzle image or theme?
George loves anything with maps—especially The Last Supper and Wonderful World Map with 36 Stand Up Pieces. It’s his all-time favourite.
What has George enjoyed most about being a Wentworth Ambassador?
He loves the chance to try new designs and attend events, fundraisers, and meet fellow puzzle fans—it’s been a wonderful experience for him.