Overview:

Contrary to the popular belief that dementia is inevitable, steps can be taken by individuals and communities to reduce the risk of dementia and, simultaneously, increase brain ability. Research published in the past decade has upended what has long been taught on this subject – making it more important than ever to review what is known about the brain and how it changes as we live longer.

Dr. Larry Chambers’s will cover three processes that should be part of rethinking aging.

Session 1: Rethinking Aging as it Applies to the Brain Protecting our Brain Tissue

Description: Protecting our Brain Tissue – By taking steps to limit damage to the brain caused by stress, sleep problems, and inactivity throughout our lives, it is more than possible to substantially reduce the risk of dementia. Equally, a loss of physical fitness (which starts long before old age) is preventable.

Session 2: Rethinking Aging as it Applies to the Brain Keeping the Arteries Open

Description: Keeping the Arteries Open -- Narrowing of the blood vessels reduces blood flow to the brain. We now know that 80% of premature strokes and vascular dementia are preventable by our life-style. Changing our life-style can prevent brain disease by keeping the oxygen supply to your brain plentiful.

Session 3: Rethinking Aging as it Applies to the Brain Keeping Engaged and Purposeful

Description: Keeping Engaged and Purposeful – These types of behaviours are contrary to ageist assumptions that as people live longer, they need less stimulation and are less capable of responding to stimulation. Aging is more than about retiring but rather it should be about refiring and rewiring. Okinawa is one of the geographic areas with the highest life expectancy rates in the world. All Okinawans practice “Ikigai” which is about having a reason for getting up in the morning and having a purpose in life.