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Brain Game Challenge Event

Encouraging individuals to be proactive about brain health.

Individuals of any age will be challenged to take steps towards good brain health when Parrish Medical Center hosts the “Brain Game Challenge” on Sunday, November 14 from 2–4 p.m. in the PMC conference center, 951 N. Washington Ave., Titusville, Fla. No reservations are required.

This free event is a collaborative partnership between Parrish Medical Center, Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation, Benton House, and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. The partnering agencies are working together to provide the community with information, education, resources and support to those affected by, or caregivers for, loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

"We are very excited to bring this event to the North Brevard community. Both my parents had Alzheimer’s disease, so this cause is near and dear to my heart," said Dr. Pat Manning, PMC and Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation board member.

The Brain Game Challenge is designed for people of all ages, abilities and interests. Attendees can participate in puzzles, logic and memory games. Educational materials on how to make healthier lifestyle choices will also be available.

The event is part of an initiative sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), a national nonprofit organization composed of 1,400 member organizations that provide hands-on support to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and their families.

“It is never too early or too late to build up good health habits, including brain health,” said Eric J. Hall, AFA’s president and chief executive officer. “This event is designed to show that the path to successful aging can be both educational and entertaining.”

AFA developed the Brain Game Challenge around the concept that flexing and stretching your brain, just like flexing and stretching other parts of your body, is critical for a successful aging workout. So much so that experts suggest that people of all ages exercise both their brains and bodies on a daily basis. Research suggests that regular mental workouts may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease or other memory disorders by enhancing cognitive reserve, stimulating growth of new brain cells, and maintaining or strengthening connections between brain cells.

Currently, Alzheimer’s disease, which results in loss of memory and other intellectual functions, affects as many as 5.1 million Americans. The incidence is expected to increase dramatically in line with the nation’s aging population; advanced age is the greatest known risk factor. In Brevard County, 20 percent of the population is over age 65—a higher percentage than any other Florida county or the U.S. in general. Alzheimer’s disease is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.

Parrish Senior Solutions can connect you to information, community resources and support for seniors, their families and caregivers. Call 321-268-6800, email seniorsolutions@parrishmed.com or visit www.parrishmed.com.