A healthy brain is crucial to survival, growth and everyday successes (Smith, 2010). Similar to the rest of the body, the brain needs exercise and maintenance in order to optimize and protect its current and future health. In particular, the brain needs socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, nutrition and sleep (AARP/Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives, 2009; Alzheimer’s Association, 2011).

Bath County presented Keys to Embracing Aging: Brain Activity to 7 participants.  Of these, 7 completed post lesson evaluations. As a result of the program, 7 participants reported improved understanding regarding the impact that meaningful social activity has on overall health and well-being. 7 reported intentions to implement at least one strategy to improve their brain activity.  

Specifically, 6 participants reported that they learned ways in which social activity, 7 physical activity, 7 mental stimulation, 6 healthy diet, 6 and sleep promote positive brain health. 7 participants reported that they typically engage in activities that strengthen their brain.  As a result of the program, 6 plan to improve their overall brain health.  

A valuable program, participants learned that sleep and nutrition are important. Keys to Embracing Aging is a Cooperative Extension educational health intervention aimed at improving overall health by focusing on ways in which individuals and families can be empowered to take control of their own lifestyle decisions and behaviors in terms of health and well-being.  To demonstrate behavior change regarding brain activity, the program included a 30-day follow-up evaluation.  Of the 7 who were sent follow-up evaluations, 7 were returned. 7 reported that they implemented at least one strategy to increase brain activity.  Specifically, participants reported that they: read more and played brain games such as crosswords and Sudoku.