Recently, I attended a seminar through the 50+ Festival at the Chang School, at TMU (formerly Ryerson). The topic was "Defying Dementia". Excellent information with the panel of experts, and resources to check out.
It's good to see more information sharing, programs and resources, including a huge $30 million donation to different organizations doing research on aging and brain health.
However, when the discussion led to what we can do for our brain health, and "defy" dementia (or at least ward it off for as long as possible) one of the most important things we can do is connect and socialize. You know where I'm going with this! The three tips at the end of the session were:
1. Make connections, socially and add to your calendar to make sure these happen.
2. Find joy - people in your life, other pursuits, intellectual , emotional and physical
3. Never stop learning (second language acquisition is a big one - as is learning a musical instrument and dancing! - and all those pesky computer/phone issues!!)
In our group, I do believe we hit these three important brain health/life strategies, and then some - as we combine our connections with physical activity, and the pleasure of sharing coffee or a meal. And as a group, we came together to support a great cause, pooled and demonstrated significant talents resulting in a very successful event on June 1, with a wonderful celebratory breakfast outdoors in a magical garden, on July 6. Many thanks to our hosts.
I've often said that TPW is our own petri dish. Our connections are deepened as we all navigate this aging process - albeit kicking and screaming for some of us - but always with humour and unwavering support. How lucky we are.