After my first two brain health presentations for older adults, I began adjusting the material based on what seemed most useful and engaging for the audience. For this recent NeuroKnow Brain Health workshop at a senior living community, I used an updated version of my 5 Pillars of Brain Health presentation, with examples and activities that were centered more on older adults and their lifestyles.
The session covered movement, cognitive activity, nutrition, sleep, and social/emotional well-being. I focused on practical and adoptable ways these areas can fit into everyday life. I also changed some of the activities from my earlier presentations so they would connect better with the audience.
The setting was a little challenging due to background noise, so I made sure to project my voice throughout the presentation without a microphone. Several participants were engaged despite the sounds, and the feedback afterward helped me understand what they had taken away from the session.
One participant wrote that they especially appreciated learning what they could do to keep their brain active through movement and thinking. Another described the presentation as “very informative.” A staff member also said the information was useful and that the presentation had gone well despite the busy environment.
One comment remained with me after the session. As I was collecting the feedback forms, one resident told me, “I know 10–15 people who should have been here.” I took it as a sign that they felt the information would be useful to others too. I encouraged them to share what they had learned with others who were unable to attend.
Each presentation continues to help me see more clearly what works with an older audience and what I can improve for the next session.
Comments
Nothing yet. Say the first thing.
Sign in to join the conversation.