In an effort to combat the rising concern of cognitive decline in the aging population, The Ohio State University's Cognitive Health in Late Life (CHILL) Lab has introduced a new initiative to inspire Ohioans to embrace lifestyle changes that can enhance their brain health. The project, housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, not only offers free memory screenings but has also embarked on a study to understand the brain health landscape across central Ohio, Ohio State News reported.
Jeremy Grant, an Ohio State neuropsychologist and the lead of this initiative, emphasized the accessibility of the study, affirming their commitment to bringing the study directly to the community at convenient locations, as he told Ohio State News. The study builds upon their earlier research, extending their reach after having conducted 170 memory screenings since January of this year, with a target to screen around 250 people.
Understanding the importance of early detection, Susan Cooper, a participant and Near East Side Columbus resident, highlighted after her screening experience, "Your awareness is important. You really need to take it and find out, what do I know? What does it reflect? What have I learned from taking this cognition test about myself?" Grant's team at the CHILL Lab is proactive in assisting members of the community to prevent, detect, and manage brain diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia through a blend of physical, cognitive, and social activities accompanied by a balanced diet and sleep hygiene. Grant emphasizes on a plant-based diet for optimal brain health, connecting the heart's well-being with the functioning of the brain, according to the same Ohio State News article.
Madison McGuire, a research technician at the CHILL Lab, pointed out that while family history and environmental factors are beyond one's control, lifestyle choices can significantly influence the risk of developing dementia, with nearly half of those at risk able to reduce their risk considerably, she said managing cholesterol, mental health issues such as depression, and physical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are all major contributors to overall brain health. The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center’s Healthy Community Center offers free programming to the residents of central Ohio, including cooking classes and various exercise programs geared towards promoting healthier living habits, which can, in turn, support brain health.
Additionally, the CHILL Lab stands as a resource providing free memory screenings and other early-detection resources that benefit those who may be at risk for cognitive disorders. Grant underlined the wealth of resources available at Ohio State for those with dementia, noting, "There’s a whole unit devoted to dementia care and diagnosis," according to the Ohio State News. Residents interested in the CHILL Lab's study, services, or memory screenings can find more information by visiting the program's website, emailing [email protected], or calling 614-688-0369.
