Brain Health Boot Camp Keeps Seniors’ Minds Sharp

Today, there are more than 46 million people age 65 and up in the U.S., according to Jewish Family & Career Services (JF&CS). That number is projected to more than double by 2060. With age serving as the greatest risk factor for cognitive impairment or memory loss, JF&CS last year launched a new program, called Brain Health Bootcamp.

The first of its kind in Atlanta, the program is designed to provide a cognitive and physical exercise program to individuals who may be experiencing a decline in cognitive functioning due to MCI or early stage Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) or other related dementias.

Dementia and AD are often used interchangeably. They actually have very different meanings. Dementia is not a specific disease but is a general term used to describe symptoms characterized by the loss of cognitive function (memory, language skills, visual perception, problem-solving, self-management and the ability to focus and pay attention).

There are over 200 subtypes of dementia, with AD being the most common form. Often, individuals will receive a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) from their physician. MCI does not necessarily lead to AD, although individuals with MCI do have a greater risk of developing AD.

MCI causes a slight but noticeable decline in cognitive abilities but the decline is not severe enough to interfere with daily life. Up to 15% to 20% of people 65 and older are living with MCI.

Research has shown that the best way to keep the brain in optimum health is to exercise both body and brain and to stay socially engaged.

These three key factors are at the core of the Brain Health Boot