Belmont Village Quarterly Newsletter
on Senior Living

Brain Fitness: it’s not just a mind game

It seems that everywhere we look today, we’re seeing articles and features about the role that the brain plays in overall health and well-being. Products to promote cognitive stimulation are gaining in popularity, ranging from old-fashioned crossword puzzles to Sudoku number puzzles to video games designed to stimulate certain areas of cognitive function.  Much ado is being made about anti-oxidants and brain-healthy foods —cookbooks, food packaging and even restaurant menus are getting into the act. 

All this attention has many wondering if this is just the latest craze or if there is really something to it.  The fact is that all the attention is the result of an increasing number of studies indicating that our brains are like any other part of our body. With frequent exercise, mental stimulation, social and spiritual engagement and proper nutrition, our brains remain healthy longer and function better as we age.

This holistic approach to health is the basis for a new program at Belmont Village designed to address the specific needs of our residents with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).  Our program, called Circle of Friends, has yielded very positive results for participating residents.  Family members regularly express their astonishment over how quickly they begin to see changes in their loved ones. 

According to Belmont Village gerontologist Beverly Sanborn, LCSW, “Much of that immediate change can be attributed to the lifting of a ‘silent depression’ experienced by people who are struggling with memory issues. When people begin to experience changes in their memory and attention abilities, they often have trouble following conversations and even orienting themselves in time and place.  Many times this leads to social isolation and depression, which further exacerbates the problem.”

In Circle of Friends, residents interact with others who are experiencing similar challenges. “They follow a structured program of cognitive, social and fitness activities that are appropriate for their abilities,” explains Sanborn. She adds, “Coupled with nutritious meals taken in a social setting, it all contributes to a sense of well-being and confidence, and helps residents to function better, for longer.”

Circle of Friends was specifically designed to address the special needs of residents with MCI, while allowing them to remain in an Assisted Living environment.  However, all of Belmont Village’s programs and activities are geared toward helping our residents maintain the highest level of mental and physical functioning possible for as long as possible, and all of our residents reap the benefits. 

The Belmont Village dining program was developed by the Conrad N Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management and is overseen by a nutritionist.  We are committed to providing a wide range of healthy, appetizing choices that appropriately meet our residents’ total health needs. 

We encourage physical activity and fitness at our on-site Centers for Life Enhancement, offering exercises for all levels of ability that are supervised by a licensed physical therapist.

Our dedicated Learning Coordinators plan regular activities, service projects and outings designed to stimulate residents intellectually and engage them socially.  Our Center for Learning computer centers give residents the opportunity to learn new skills and stay connected with friends and family through email and the internet. 

A variety of worship services and study classes are available at our communities, and transportation to churches and temples is provided, so that residents may continue to actively practice their faith. 

To learn more about Belmont Village’s industry-leading programs, including Circle of Friends, please contact a Belmont Village community relations associate by clicking on the link below.

To contact Belmont Village, please click here.