Tell Me Something Good…
Stephani Shivers, MEd, ORT/L
Chief Innovation Officer and VP of Program Development, sshivers@cknyc.org
Isn’t it refreshing to hear good news? Especially when you discover that a small change can make a big difference.
A few years ago, I had a hard fall that left me with lingering shoulder pain— especially after sleeping on my side. But this summer, while vacationing at a friend’s house, something unexpected happened: I woke up refreshed and pain-free. The secret? A funny-shaped pillow with a half-moon cutout that gave me just the right support. After three blissful nights, I ordered one for myself. Who knew such a small change could have such a big impact? Better sleep is good news for me—and for my brain.
Sleep plays a critical role in brain health, and recent research is shedding light on other small changes worth celebrating.
Last summer, the Lancet Commission on Dementia shared hopeful evidence: up to 45% of dementia cases may be preventable by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors throughout life. This summer, the two-year
U.S. POINTER study found that targeting risk factors—like regular physical activity, a brain-healthy diet, cognitive and social engagement, and health monitoring—can improve brain function. That’s really good news. Cognitive decline isn’t inevitable with age. We can take action now to protect our brain health.
This year has also brought exciting and encouraging developments in dementia treatment and care. We now have disease-modifying therapies and new medications. An FDA-approved blood test is streamlining the diagnostic process, making early detection more accessible than ever.
So, check your pillow. Grab a handful of blueberries. Take a walk with a friend. Challenge your brain in new ways. Share some good news about brain health—and make a small change that could make a big difference!
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