Natalie's June Insight

Keeping Your Brain Curious and Connected

Hi Everyone,

The summer weather has arrived in Michigan and I hope you are getting a chance to be outside and take in the fresh air and sunshine.

The focus of this month's newsletter is on brain health. One of the greatest areas of discovery in medicine is found in how our brains work. I love reading about emerging brain research, and it is exciting to see findings showing how factors like social connection, movement, sleep, lifelong learning, and a sense of purpose can positively influence brain health throughout our lives.

We often hear about the importance of exercising our bodies, but we do not always talk about exercising our brains. Just like our muscles, our brains benefit from being challenged in new and meaningful ways. One of the things I enjoy most about this research is seeing how our brains thrive when we experience something new, stay curious, continue learning, and connect with others.

The good news is that exercising your brain does not have to be complicated. Maybe this week you take a different route to a place you visit often, ask someone to teach you something they know, learn a few words in a new language, visit a new spot in your community, or simply spend time listening to someone's story. Small moments of curiosity, connection, and learning can go a long way. If you would like to take one small step this week to exercise your brain, pick something that feels interesting or enjoyable to you. You do not have to do it perfectly. Just giving your brain something new to explore is a great place to start.

If you are noticing changes in your own thinking or memory, or if you are concerned about someone you love, my encouragement is not to panic, but also not to ignore it. Many changes can have explanations, and understanding what is happening starts with having the courage to talk about it. Share your concerns with your physician and be an advocate for yourself or your loved one. Ask questions, seek information, and consider what next steps and evaluations make the most sense for your unique situation, values, and family.

While many people immediately begin thinking about what could be lost, some of the most meaningful conversations happen when we focus on what we want to preserve. What routines matter most? Who are the people we want around us? What activities bring us purpose and joy? What support would help us continue living the life we value? These conversations are not about giving something up. They are about creating a roadmap for the future.

Planning conversations can feel overwhelming, but they are often one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and the people who care about us. Build a team around you, explore available resources, and create a plan that reflects your preferences for the future.

Then, do not forget to keep living.

Spend time with the people you love. Pursue what brings you joy. Stay engaged in your community. Continue learning, contributing, and making memories. A diagnosis or concern may become part of the story, but it does not have to become the whole story.

This is also where a Care Manager can help. Cognitive changes can bring a lot of questions and decisions, and you do not have to navigate them alone. We come alongside individuals and families, helping them take things one step at a time, connect with the right resources, and create a plan for the future.

While planning is important, so is continuing to live well. We believe in helping people focus on what they can still do, not just what they cannot, so they can continue to find joy, purpose, connection, and meaning throughout the journey.

— Natalie Adewunmi, RN, BSN, CCM

Founder, Care Management by Natalie