“Aging Can Be Fun!” How Seniors Inform Others to Maintain Cognitive Health

Purpose Cognitive health is vital to the aging population. Substantial evidence suggests that physical activity and other healthy behaviors may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. To better understand attitudes about, and perceived strategies for, maintaining cognitive function, this study assessed how seniors obtain and share information about health behaviors that maintain cognitive health. Methods Nine focus groups were conducted in South Carolina: five with African Americans (n=43) and four with non-Hispanic whites (n=38). Groups were conducted by trained moderators using a 9-item interview guide. Participants were asked, “If we put you in charge of getting the word out to others about the importance of physical activity, a healthy diet, and being involved socially for healthy brains, what would you do to make sure everybody knew about this?” All focus group sessions were audio taped, transcribed verbatim, and then analyzed using grounded theory and the constant comparison method, with Atlas.ti software. Results Participants’ mean age was 72, with the majority reporting at least a high school education. Thematic comparisons revealed that seniors perceive eye-catching pamphlets and flyers to be the best strategy to inform others about brain health, followed by the use of existing group meetings, such as churches and senior centers. Participants also suggested the use of creative slogans, such as “Aging can be fun!” and “Wake up and live!” Finally, organizing brain health seminars, health fairs, and media broadcasts were offered as ways to inform others about brain health. Conclusion Health promotion efforts may be most effective if delivered through multiple methods. Multiple methods may increase the likelihood that a larger number of seniors are reached with information about health behaviors that promote cognitive health. Specifically, disseminating information via brochures and flyers, using creative slogans, and working through community centers may enhance health promotion efforts.