by Heather Gately

In a world filled with constant distractions, our brains often bear the brunt of modern-day stress. While crossword puzzles, a healthy diet, and regular exercise are popular strategies to maintain brain health, mindfulness stands out as an often-overlooked yet profoundly effective practice. Not only is mindfulness rooted in centuries of tradition, but science has also validated its incredible benefits for the brain. Plus, let’s face it, sitting quietly and breathing beats jogging uphill or forcing down kale smoothies.

by Heather Gately

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude, but for families affected by cognitive decline or dementia, it can also present unique challenges. With some thoughtful adjustments, Thanksgiving can still be a joyful, inclusive experience that honors everyone present. Here are five ways to make the holiday meaningful, comforting, and enjoyable for all.

by Heather Gately

Exploring How Seasonal Changes Affect Our Brain Health and Well-being

The shift from summer to autumn is not merely a change in the calendar; it represents a transition that can considerably impact our physical and mental health. As the long, sunlit days yield to shorter periods of daylight and cooler temperatures, our bodies and minds undergo a series of adjustments that can affect our daily routines and overall well-being.

by Donna Spellman

The health of our brain, along with our ability to adapt to stress and adversity is related to our physical health, our environment, our social connections, lifelong learning and our access to quality services. These factors pave the way to preventative and reactive strategies throughout our lives.

by Heather Gately

The frustration that someone feels when they start to notice their memory slipping is nothing compared to the fear that someone else may be noticing that your memory isn’t working properly! Of course, the fear then sends adrenaline and cortisol pumping straight to the brain to exacerbate the entire interaction by causing the brain’s ability to recall and react to falter. Panic sets in and game over!

by Donna Spellman

Mom is having difficulty remembering conversations and often seems confused. I know we need to do something, but what? This question comes up for so many families when trying to find the best option for someone exhibiting signs of cognitive decline. Most often, people don’t know where to start and what’s available to them. Read on for suggestions on how to get started.

by Heather Gately

Welcome to the Dementia Café? How many will be joining your party today? Would it surprise you to know that you could be joined by 6.7 million other people living with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia in America? That’s a LOT of coffee!!

by Donna Spellman

“I meant to do that, but I didn’t have time…” Or, “Someday when I have more time, I will….” Time is a small four-letter word that holds so much power over what we do. What does time mean?

by Heather Gately

Our minds might be so stuck in the routine of our patterns over the last 40+ years and we might notice that our ability to be ‘flexible’ in thoughts and ideas may be as rusty as trying to touch our toes without wincing. Nobody ever told us the dangers of staying on ‘auto-pilot’ for extended periods and what that might do to us once we decide to turn the lights back on!!!

by Heather Gately

Have you ever wanted to say something but couldn’t think of the right word? Or walked into a room of friends and forget somebody’s name? They look familiar, but the name escapes your head! This is known as ‘tip of the tongue’ syndrome.

by Donna Spellman

We often refer to the digital divide as it pertains to socioeconomic levels. But let’s consider the other digital divide–the one that divides us by age groups. The reality is that younger people are more able to rely on their smartphones and computers to manage their lives than their older (over 70) friends and family members.