Winter has fewer puzzle pieces, a simplified image from everyday life, and large pieces which are easy to handle. Each piece measures 2" x 2", and the completed 30 piece puzzle measures 8.25" x 11".

For dementia patients, jigsaw puzzles with many pieces and detailed images are too difficult. MindStart puzzles, designed by an occupational therapist, are unique because the images have only a few, simple objects in each image, making it easier for the user to find pieces that go together. This design feature, along with having fewer puzzle pieces and images from adult life, allows the person with dementia to have the right level of mental stimulation and dignified success. Also, the large size of the puzzle pieces helps seniors with vision loss to easily see and handle the pieces. A research study showed that patients with dementia were able to set the MindStart puzzles more independently, with less cues needed, when compared to a child’s puzzle of the same size. This gives the person a sense of accomplishment and gives caregivers respite time.