Simple techniques can build stronger memory in adults

Cognitive decline is one of the biggest concerns faced by many senior adults. Things like forgetting to turn off small appliances, losing keys, or getting appointments mixed up may just seem like part of the reality of getting older, but as those issues worsen, they are a big reason seniors can no longer live independently or enjoy life with family. Additionally, rural Missourians often face challenges such as cost or transportation when trying to access resources to sustain their cognitive health or that of a loved one. 

Kevin Evans, administrator at SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging, is working to change that situation by bringing a program called Stronger Memory to Missouri communities. Stronger Memory is a simple but effective program—and best of all, it’s free. Evans has now introduced Stronger Memory to at least 17 senior centers in his area network, with more than 100 senior adults having actively participated. Many have shared stories of its impact, as they experience newfound confidence through improved processing skills and a shift from feeling hopeless to a newly optimistic outlook on life. 

Stronger Memory was founded by Rob Liebreich, who serves as president and CEO of Goodwin Living, a faith-based nonprofit based in northern Virginia dedicated to supporting, honoring and uplifting the lives of older adults and those who care for them. In 2011, Liebreich noticed that his own mother was starting to show signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), things like repeating herself and struggling with ability to focus. As he was actively working in the field of senior living and healthcare, Liebreich began seeking ways to address the challenge. 

Unable to find an existing program specific to MCI, Liebreich and his family sought help from colleagues and other experts to create their own. Today, this family-inspired innovation is known as Stronger Memory by Goodwin Living, and their goal is to have as many people as possible using these tools to improve brain health and continue living a fulfilling life. 

“There are an estimated 10 million people in the United States like my mom, who want to improve their brain health,” said Liebreich via the Stronger Memory website. “We want to support each one of them.” 

The program is not intended for those with serious medical issues or advanced Alzheimer’s Disease; however, since the Alzheimer’s Association reports that 38% of individuals with MCI develop dementia after five years, it was the family’s hope that the Stronger Memory program would help reduce that percentage. Stronger Memory centers around three activities that help people “grab memories” and exercise brain pathways: 

• Reading aloud, including children’s books  

• Handwriting 

• Simple math 

Worksheets are available to help activate different sections of the brain, but the beauty of the program is its simplicity, as it can be done from anywhere and is not limited by access to transportation. Senior centers can be a huge help, though, by scheduling weekly group meetings for fellowship and support. 

Kevin Evans has begun conversation with some of the senior centers in Taney and Stone County about introducing the program; check with your local center to see if plans are being made for a group. Get started today by visiting https://goodwinliving.org/stronger-memory/ to learn more about the program and download the workbook; or reach out to kevin.evans@senioragemo.org to arrange for a presentation or get more information.