Emeritus has committed to a bold initiative to lead in the application of brain health across the lifespan. Our partner in forging ahead is Dr. Paul Nussbaum, a nationally known clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in healthy aging across the lifespan. Dr. Nussbaum has concluded that a "complex and novel environment" is key to healthy brain development - from before we are born, as we grow and mature, and throughout our entire lifetimes.
Five key areas
Emeritus' Brain Health program consists of five key areas. Within these areas are many opportunities, activities and challenges for creating a complex and novel environment.
- Social/Emotional - Simply put, we need other people; and we need strong, healthy relationships. Older adults who isolate and segregate are at risk for dementia.
- Physical Activity - running, walking, stretching, dancing - use both sides of the brain and both sides of the body! These activities also increase the supply of vital oxygen to the brain and relate to reduced risk of dementia!
- Mental/Intellectual - can be compared to "aerobics for the brain." Keep your mind challenged, active, and not passive. Activities such as board games, learning a second language, travel, reading, sign language and speaking promote brain health.
- Nutritional - Good nutrition is necessary for overall health. Foods rich in antioxidants (such as brightly colored fruits and vegetables) and Omega 3 fatty acids (such as salmon, walnuts, almonds and flax seed) are excellent choices to promote brain health.
- Spiritual - opportunities to engage in deep personal reflection; to further develop your sense of purpose, meaning and hope; to relax and relieve stress. Sleeping regular hours can promote overall health and relate to cognitive efficiency.
Brain health self assessment
To find out how healthy your brain is, click here to complete a brain health self assessment.
Emeritus Leads the Way!
As the leader in brain health programming, Emeritus is delivering researched-based activities for residents living in assisted living communities. As the pioneer of brain health, Emeritus is also delivering brain health education and programs to staff, families of residents and staff, and the entire local community.
For contact information and to learn more about Dr. Nussbaum and brain health, please visit his website at www.paulnussbaum.com
