Why this helps: A visual, centralized hub for the day's plan reduces anxiety and confusion by creating predictable structure. It fosters independence, invites participation, and keeps everyone connected to shared goals and memories, reinforcing a sense of purpose and belonging. Thus, reducing feelings of helplessness and boredom. How to do [...]
Author: Brett Kelman, KFF Health News Illustrator: Oona Zenda, KFF Health News Earlier this year, as President Donald Trump was beginning to reshape the American government, Michael, an emergency room doctor who was born, raised, and trained in the United States, packed up his family and got out. Michael now [...]
Author Dacher Keltner explains how compassion is literally at our fingertips. Greater Good‘s latest video features the executive editor, Dacher Keltner, on the science of touch. Here, he elaborates on cutting-edge research into the ways everyday forms of touch can bring us emotional balance and better health. A pat on [...]
Why this helps: A gentle manicure is an attentive, loving touch that fosters connection. This focused care is more than grooming; studies of therapeutic touch show it can lower stress and promote calm, making it a simple ritual for well-being. How to do it: Gather basic supplies: a bowl of [...]
Author: Kate Swaffer © 2026 Despite decades of research, and public awareness efforts — including the widespread proliferation of the non-inclusive dementia-friendly campaigns— people diagnosed with a dementia continue to experience pervasive issues including stigma, structural discrimination, and social exclusion. These outcomes persist not because of a lack of awareness [...]
Creative experience might enhance brain health, which could slow down the brain’s ageing. That’s according to a study by a group of international scientists across 13 countries. They found that creative activities, like dance classes – the tango proved particularly effective – or art classes or music lessons or a [...]
This creative act engages the senses of sight, touch, and smell, providing a sense of purpose and collaborative achievement. It transforms your shared space with the beauty you made together, focusing on ability and shared joy. How to do it: Gather 2-3 stems of flowers, greenery, or even interesting branches. [...]
Poetry engages the imagination and emotional heart, offering connection beyond facts or memory. Sharing a poem creates a novel, shared experience that focuses on the beauty of sound, rhythm, and feeling in the present moment. How to do it: Choose a short, uplifting poem. Nature or love poems work beautifully. [...]
Findings suggest that even frail older adults may benefit from a little exercise We are all aware that physical activity and movement benefit brain health. A recent study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health now provides us with dramatic findings about reducing the possibilities of developing dementia. Findings: [...]
Why this matters when caring for someone with Alzheimer's: Is there anyone who doesn’t stand up a little taller when having a photograph taken? This featured photo was recorded ten years following Mother’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. I had photographed her many times. Why did it matter? Over a 14-year period [...]