According to the Alzheimer's Association, as of 2023, an estimated 55 million people worldwide have dementia. The prevalence of dementia increases with age, affecting about 4% of adults aged 65-74 and up to 13% of those aged 85 and older. To help address this health concern, the University of Illinois Extension program Wits Workout was brought to Kentucky.  In the spring of 2024, Wits Workout was introduced in Breckinridge County.  

Wits Workout is a multimodal workshop series that offers facilitation for adults ages 50 and older, interactive dialogue and activities about behaviors that promote brain health.

Throughout the 2024-25 program year Wits Workout was offered by the Breckinridge County Cooperative Extension Service FCS agent.  A total of 20 adult participants aged 50 and over have attended the sessions with 12 attending on a regular bases. During the hour-long sessions participants learned about brain-health topics (examples: memory recall food and nutrition, sleep, physical activity, social engagement,) and completed a number of challenging written and verbal puzzles.  

While participating in intellectual challenging activities, they were also engaged in social interaction which both are important for brain health (University of Illinois Extension). Due to the nature of the program, participants shared memories relating to such topics as travel, school and community history.  Their discussions lead to them building connections with each other and developing new friendships. 

Program surveys report high satisfaction with the program materials, presentation and content.  Participants shared they value the program because they enjoy meeting other people and making new friends.  The worksheets are challenging but it is good to think hard.   Wits Workout is providing a supportive environment for older people to gather and socialize while strengthening memory and fighting cognitive decline.