The terms longevity, healthspan, and wellness have taken root in our everyday language. Now, brain health is becoming an equally important part of the conversation, as we seek not only to add years to life, but to support cognitive health throughout those years. The good news is that many of the lifestyle approaches and habits recommended for a longer, healthier life are the same ones that support brain health. Healthy eating, regular exercise, staying socially engaged, managing stress, and partic- ipating in recommended health screenings are important components of healthspan and can help support brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. As we age, many of us notice changes in thinking and memory. But when you notice a change, it is natural to wonder: Is this normal aging, or something more? Advances in cognitive health research, including the development of biomarkers and new treatments for certain forms of Alzheimer’s disease, are changing what we know about identifying and addressing cognitive changes. These developments underscore the value of being proactive—paying attention to changes, discussing concerns with your health care provider, and consid- ering regular cognitive screening. Shell Point’s Healthcare team is prepared to provide screenings, referrals, and support for cognitive concerns. Like most health conditions, early identification of potential concerns allows for a proactive approach to treatment and management, helping individuals maintain the best possible well-being and quality of life. Shell Point Connections brings together a continuum of cognitive health programs and services. Connections began through a relationship with UCLA Longevity Center to bring relevant,
evidence-based cognitive health programs to Shell Point. Over time, the programs and support offered have blossomed through the coordinated approach of passionate staff and volunteers across campus. Connections programs are varied and diverse to the meet unique needs of residents at every stage of cognitive health. The UCLA Memory Training classes are popular with residents seeking tips, tools and strategies to address sometimes annoy- ing common age-related memory changes such as recalling names, remembering to do something in the future, misplacing items and tip of the tongue word finding difficulty. The 4-week Sharper Minds class engages residents of Kings Crown, Springs and Arbor with brain healthy lifestyle education, memory strategies and tools. UCLA Memory Care weekly classes provide engaging, cognitively stimulating content to residents that are experiencing cognitive challenges. Memory Care classes are uniquely adapted for all Shell Point residents. Two innovative technology platforms—Memcara, a music therapy-based app, and iN2L—It’s Never Too Late—offer interactive games, videos, and music to
enrich our cognitive health programs in Assisted Living, Connected Living, and Larsen Health Center. Cognitive health programing also continues to evolve with M.O.R.E., a five-week program focused on evidence-informed, proactive lifestyle approach to living with Mild Cognitive Impairment. Support for those impacted by a diagnosis of dementia and their caregivers are offered through nationally recognized caregiver education classes and Connections Circle Support Groups. Shell Point also participates in a new Medicare GUIDE (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) program, providing an inter- disciplinary team approach to care of those living with dementia and their caregivers. Whether you are looking to strengthen your brain health, learn strategies to support memory and cognition, or navigate a cognitive change, there is a pathway to support you at Shell Point. Need di- rection to the right path? Contact connections@shellpoint.org or Kayla Sites, Connections Navigator, (239) 415-5619 or Emily Reese, Connections Program Coordinator, (239) 454-2134.
Check Wellzesta for details and registration for upcoming programs. M.O.R.E. Mild Cognitive Impairment Education Thursdays, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 | 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | The Cove/Estuary Connecting to Cognitive Health and Support Wednesday, October 28 | 1 – 2:30 p.m. | Grand Cypress Room UCLA Memory Training Tuesdays, November 3, 10, 17, 24 | 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. | The Cove / Estuary Cognivue Screens Wednesday, November 4 | 9 – 1 p.m. | Larsen Education Room A Reset and Renew – Skill Building for Caregiver Resilience Thursdays, November 5 and 12 | 9 – 11:30 a.m. | The Cove / Estuary
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Florida Southwestern State College Depart Center Court | 8 a.m. Opening Ceremony and Walk | 8:45 a.m. 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's Saturday, October 24
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Shell Point Life | Fall 2026
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