Granite VNA has introduced StrongerMemory, a new program for older adults to improve brain health by strengthening recall and focus through simple writing and math exercises. Designed to help alleviate symptoms of mild cognitive impairment and early-stage dementia in older adults, StrongerMemory consists of simple activities that participants practice daily to engage the working memory and trigger brain activity in the prefrontal cortex.
Program Structure and Participation
Participants meet once a week for 10-12 weeks for 30 minutes to check-in with the program leader and share their progress with each other. StrongerMemory program activities are self-guided, but peer support plays a critical role in the process. According to Granite VNA Community Health Educator Brooke Noonan, “Improving brain health boosts confidence, empowers people to remain independent, and improves quality of life. Participants in our first StrongerMemory sessions have shown improvements in recall, cognition, and confidence.”
Need and Evidence
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 7% of people aged 45 and over in New Hampshire report experiencing chronic confusion or memory loss, and nearly half of them have not talked to a health care professional about it. For those with worsening memory problems, almost half say it has created “functional difficulties” that cause them to give up day-to-day activities or interfered with work or social activities. Research indicates participants who spend 20 to 30 minutes a day engaged in simple reading, writing, and math activities can experience stabilized or improved cognitive function.
Community Impact
Many StrongerMemory participants have forged strong connections over the course of the program and have continued doing the activities and meeting regularly on their own. Noonan noted: “A healthy mind opens the door to meaningful connections, and we have seen this in our groups.” The StrongerMemory program was originally developed by Goodwin Living of Northern Virginia for residents of senior living communities, and Granite VNA is now bringing this innovative program to the communities it serves as part of its community health and wellness programming.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.laconiadailysun.com/community/health_and_wellness/granite-vna-introduces-strongermemory-program-designed-to-help-improve-brain-health-and-mental-recall/article_256adc14-7919-420d-b3bb-df3df05d21e4.html