About

Modifying risk factors could prevent or delay 40% of dementias. As researchers seek treatments and cures, there is so much we can do today to reduce the impact of dementia on individuals, families, and communities.

Brain Health Action™ is a multi-year, multi-faceted AARP initiative to energize all of us to choose brain healthy lifestyles. By encouraging adoption of brain healthy behaviors, we hope to transform the current fatalistic narrative to a more action-oriented, constructive, and realistic one focused on building our brain health. We want to move from hopelessness to hope, and reduce the stigma associated with cognitive decline and dementia.

AARP has long been an important ally in the pursuit of good brain health. We are expanding this commitment by building a broad-based national collaborative that empowers people — particularly those 40 and older — to adopt and maintain brain healthy behaviors. We especially want to engage people and communities who have struggled against systemic inequities and racism and that currently have disproportionate rates of cognitive decline.

Creating a National Conversation on Brain Health

The Brain Health Action advisory group helps set the direction and priorities for the Collaborative’s efforts. Central to this work are a national, public-facing brain health campaign, the Collaborative web site, and AARP.org’s new Brain Health Resource Center. Brain Health Action envisions thought-leader events, media outreach, survey research, and other activities — all focused on dramatically increasing brain health awareness and engagement.

Focusing on Equity

BHA especially seeks ways to engage people and communities who have struggled against systemic inequities and racism and that currently have disproportionate rates of cognitive decline. The Collaborative is joining community leaders to amplify messages that are culturally relevant and promote innovative programs that are already showing promise. We hope our efforts inspire leaders in all sectors and places to create more equitable access to information, environments, and health services that support brain healthy behaviors.

Sparking a Movement

No one organization can transform the conversation around brain health on its own. We must join forces and communicate together. Join us!