MHAPC presents Mind Fit 4 Life Aug. 30

Monday, August 20, 2012
Thomas

With the latest research showing "if you don't use it, you lose it" when it comes to brain function, Mental Health America of Putnam County is presenting the Mind Fit 4 Life seminar on Thursday, Aug. 30.

The session is a mental fitness class designed to keep the brain in its best condition. The seminar will take place at 2 p.m. at the Putnam County Public Library.

Madeleine Thomas, a licensed, certified speech-language pathologist and mental fitness facilitator, strives to conduct her sessions in a format that is less stressful to people than a class in which they are graded.

The former Greencastle resident said she tries to balance fun activities with all the information people over 30 need on keeping their minds active.

"My primary focus is to teach people what they can do to keep mental wellness," Thomas said.

Mental Health America Director Eileen Johnson said a September 2011 session conducted by Thomas was the most fun she's seen people having at a seminar.

"There was a lot of laughing going on in that class," Johnson said. "It's the first time we've had a program that went on that long that people weren't itching to get out."

Thomas said something important to remember is that any activity aimed at maintaining one's mental capacities should be functional.

She said there are expensive products on the market that work, but whose exercises aren't functional.

Instead, she encourages people to focus on functional tasks such as making out travel plans and putting menus together. Studies also show that trying new experiences is greatly beneficial.

"You generate new brain cells every time you do something new," Thomas said.

To make a reservation, contact Johnson at 653-3310 or email mhapc@cinergymetro.net by Tuesday, Aug. 28. There will be a $3 fee to cover the cost of materials.

The program is sponsored by Cummins Behavioral Health. Refreshments will be provided.

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