Senior Health

In this illuminating episode of Make America Healthy, Stan Goldberg, a professor at San Francisco State and author of “Preventing Senior Moments: How to Stay Alert into Your 90s and Beyond,” and Cynthia Benjamin, co-founder of Together Senior Health discuss senior health by providing a holistic perspective and offering actionable insights for maintaining cognitive well-being.

Stan Goldberg kicks off the discussion by challenging the prevailing misconception surrounding the aging brain. He delves into the different types of memory, likening the brain to an intricate system of intertwining gears. Goldberg disputes the oversimplification of memory issues as mere “cognitive problems,” providing a more nuanced understanding of the aging process.

Cynthia, a proponent of cognitive well-being, sheds light on factors within our control that deeply influence brain health. Physical activity, cognitive engagement, and social interactions are modifiable risk factors that significantly impact our cognitive wellness. Contrary to the common belief that cognitive decline has a fixed starting point, Goldberg emphasizes that it is contingent upon individual modifiable risk factors.

Drawing from his experiences with patients, Goldberg highlights the positive impact of engaging in creative or cognitive activities. Those who participate tend to be more alert and possess better memories. Cynthia complements this by underlining the effectiveness of a combination of repetition and physical activities in building new cognitive pathways. It’s a testament to the interconnected nature of our bodies, emphasizing that the brain is not an isolated entity but intricately connected to our entire being.

Turning the focus to Alzheimer’s, Cynthia acknowledges the rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s and dementia. She notes that despite the challenges, there are still ways to experience joy and learn. Goldberg, drawing from his global experiences, believes that there is a widespread misconception about Alzheimer’s, viewing it predominantly as a brain problem. However, he suggests that strategies can be applied universally, regardless of the country or severity phase of Alzheimer’s.

With the aim to provide accessible cognitive health resources to everyone. Cynthia provides further insights into her program, Together Senior Health. She explains that their services, including self-pay classes, are offered in all 50 states through insurance programs like Medicare Advantage Plan or directly from providers.

For those seeking actionable steps to enhance cognitive health, Cynthia advocates staying active and engaged with the world both physically and mentally. Social connection is paramount, and starting small – taking one step at a time – can be less overwhelming. On the other hand, Goldberg encourages challenging the brain and underscores the importance of repetition in laying down new memories.

By staying engaged, challenging our brains, and fostering positive connections, we contribute to a healthier and more vibrant America.