At the last class of the cognitive stimulation program at Putnam Hospital Center this fall, speech therapist Jenny Kalanz was inspired, she said, by her students’ progress.
“The first day we did a simple assessment timed activity. They have each greatly improved since then,” Kalanz said. “That was very impressive to me.”
The complimentary program kicked off earlier this year, offering participants who have mild cognitive deficits a variety of activities including word games, visual recognition and repetition tasks meant to stimulate attention, memory and thinking skills.
“I’ve learned everything to make the brain strong,” participant Howard Bruning said.
The class is geared toward mature adults who have concerns with memory and want to keep the brain active. Research has shown improving concentration and brain function may lead to improvements in remembering, making new memories, driving abilities and reducing falls, Kalanz said.
“It was fun and challenging,” participant Diane O’Brien said. “The camaraderie of the group was nice, too.”
The cognitive stimulation program will pick up again at noon on Thursday, Jan. 4, and will meet every Thursday for 12 weeks in the Michael T. Weber Conference Room 2. Registration is required. For more information, call Kalanz at 845-279-5711 ext. 2483 (TTY 1-800-421-1220).