Cognitive Connections: A New Senior Public Health Program

On April 8th, as part of Collingswood Wellness Week, Collingswood Manor launched the first meeting of our new public health program, Cognitive Connections. Open to everyone, the free initiative focuses on mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a common condition in older adults. While sometimes a precursor to dementia, MCI can also exist independently.

The new monthly Cognitive Connections program will be hosted on the second Wednesday of each month at Collingswood Public Library (starting on May 14th). Topics and activities will include memory screening, promoting healthy habits, and the latest information on MCI and dementia-related conditions like Alzheimer’s. 

The kickoff event at Collingswood Manor featured engaging programs and hands-on activities about boosting brain health for seniors as well as presentations from two leading industry experts from Rowan University: Dr. Paul Bryman, Medical Director of Collingswood Manor, and Dr. Robert Nagele, professor of geriatrics and gerontology.

Both Dr. Bryman and Dr. Nagele spoke in-depth on the causes and treatments of dementia and Alzheimer’s, as well as best practices for maintaining cognitive health like exercising and a healthy diet. Dr. Nagele also shared that new tests will soon be available to proactively diagnose Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease before symptoms appear. And when it comes to dementia-related conditions, early intervention is key. 

Read coverage of the inaugural event by local press The Retrospect.