Fighting Alzheimer's with brain exercise

by Christian Schreiber, staff blogger

“We’re trying to keep people as independent as possible for as long as possible,” says Jeff Zylstra, Community Manager at Royal Park Place, our retirement community in Zeeland, Michigan. Jeff knows that mental fitness is as important as physical fitness in maintaining independence. So as a counterpart to the SeniorFITness exercise program, Royal Park Place also offers BrainFitness, a new program of “brain games” for seniors. The games make learning fun, so participants look forward to their workouts.

The brain games are available through Dakim, a company founded by Dan Michel, who watched his father struggle with Alzheimer's. Dan designed a variety of games and devices to keep his father's mind occupied. The early games were physical constructions, but in 2002 Dan found a partner to help produce the same stimulating effects using computers. In 2006, Dakim's BrainFitness system was first introduced to a senior living community. Two years later, the Dakim BrainFitness System became the leading brand of brain fitness products for American seniors.

Knowing the history, and seeing the benefits, Jeff Zylstra was eager to bring BrainFitness technology to Royal Park Place. Early in 2009 Royal Park Place was able to purchase a system and secure licensing for 20 residents. Because there is a waiting list of interested residents, Jeff requires the 20 chosen to commit to at least three workouts each week.

The BrainFitness computer is set up in the Royal Park Place lobby, and it is common to see participants logged on to work out. More than 125 different brain games are currently available. To experience an online sampling, visit Dakim.

Royal Park Place is the first Providence community to offer BrainFitness technology to residents. Providence would love to help more seniors fight Alzheimer's, but the technology is expensive. If you are interested in partnering with us to fight Alzheimer's at all our campuses, visit our secure, convenient, on-line giving page, and select "Fighting Alzheimer's" in the Gift Information box.