Alzheimer’s & Brain Health Awareness Month

Featured, Healthy Living Center, In The News
June 23, 2023

Recognizing the Importance of National Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Month at the Y

June is National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Worldwide, more than 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Did you know that studies have shown that physical activity reduces the risk of cognitive decline? At the Treasure Valley Family YMCA we promote the importance of physical activity at any age! Just a little bit of activity can go a long way in helping improve brain health.

Celebrating Cancer Survivor Awareness Month

June is National Cancer Survivor Month. There are currently 16.9 million cancer survivors in the United States. Despite the challenges of short-term and long-term effects of treatment, cancer survivors are resilient.

The Treasure Valley Family YMCA celebrates survivors during National Cancer Survivor Month, and encourages individuals touched by cancer to learn more about how we support recovery through our programs and initiatives below.

 

Healthy Living Center programming now available at your local Y!

Brain Health Symposium:

Brain health is a critical piece of your overall health. It underlies your ability to communicate, make decisions, problem-solve and live a productive and useful life. Because the brain controls so much of daily function, it is arguably the single most valuable organ in the human body. This educational forum provides an opportunity for adults to better understand important considerations for navigating life stages. Identify and learn strategies to assist in a healthy and functioning brain and improve your overall quality of life. Held this year at ICOM.

Movement For Memory:

Movement for Memory is specifically designed for early-stage dementia and/or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). 

Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays:

Caldwell YMCA: Jun. 27, 11:30-12:30 p.m.

Downtown Boise YMCA: Jul. 6, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

West Boise YMCA: Aug. 1, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA: Aug. 1, 1:15-2:15 p.m.

Caregiver Workshop & Respite Care:

The Alzheimer’s Association early-stage social engagement programs offer a comfortable way to get out, get, active, and get connected to others who are living with memory loss, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia, and their care partners. 

Classes meet Tuesdays and Wednesdays:

Caldwell YMCA: Aug. 23-Sep. 27, 12:30-3:00 p.m.

Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA: Oct. 10-Nov. 14, 11:30-2:00 p.m.

Oncology Recovery:

The Oncology Recovery Program is designed to meet the needs of cancer survivors before, during and/or after treatment in a safe and supportive environment. 

Research shows that when geared specifically to the patient, exercise is safe for all physical levels of ability. Additionally, it is suggested that interaction with individuals who have similar circumstances may lead to benefits beyond exercise alone. 

Participants partake in physical and social activities focused on strengthening the whole person and improving quality of life. By shifting the emphasis away from the disease, participants move beyond cancer in spirit, mind, and body