Over-50s can take control of their brain health via an easy-to-digest workshop at Mudjimba.
Food for Thought – Building healthy brains together is a half-day class, which will examine the relationship between healthy food, social connection and mental engagement.
Sunshine Coast Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law encouraged people to book now for the October 1 event.
“There will be practical cooking demonstrations, a delicious morning tea, a take-home pack with recipes and some great health and wellbeing resources courtesy of USC Nutrition students, plus USC (University of the Sunshine Coast) guest speakers and lots of fun interactive activities,” Cr Law said.
“Food for Thought is designed to empower participants with strategies to implement simple and sustainable lifestyle changes to improve their brain health and prevent cognitive decline, including dementia, memory loss and confusion, plus mental health decline – no matter what your age.
“This program ties in beautifully with our Sunshine Coast Community Strategy 2019-2041 and one of our key goals to help people lead healthy, active lifestyles.”
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USC Senior Lecturer in Nutrition and Dietetics Dr Hattie Wright said the simple act of sharing a meal with family and friends could have a powerful impact on a person’s immediate and long-term mental health.
“And choosing healthy and nutritious meals can further maximise your mental and brain health,” Dr Wright said.
“During this workshop you will learn more about the latest research on the link between food, mood and brain health. We will also share easy steps on how to incorporate the principles of a brain-friendly diet into your everyday life.”
The event will be presented by Sunshine Coast Council, with the Healthy Ageing Partnership (HAP), and supported by the Queensland Government and the Council on The Ageing Queensland, during Seniors Month.
Event details
- Friday, October 1 (International Day of Older Persons).
- From 9am–12.30pm, registrations start at 8.30am.
- North Shore Community Centre, 701 David Low Way, Mudjimba.
- $10 per person (plus booking fee of $1.64).
- For Over-50s.
- Book here.
Food facts
- Nutrition has been linked to a 53 per cent potential reduction in Alzheimer’s Disease.
- Optimising mental and social activity reduces Alzheimer’s risk by 48 per cent.
- Nutrition reduces moderate-to-severe depression by 32 per cent.
- Lack of social connection and loneliness increases cognitive decline and the risk of developing dementia by as much as 20 per cent, and it has also been shown to be associated with an increased risk for premature death, similar to smoking, alcohol consumption and obesity.
- Meditation has been shown to offset age-related cognitive decline.
