Living Well at Every Age: Donors Support Brain Health at Asbury

Donor support is accelerating Asbury Communities’ goal of becoming one of the nation’s most innovative, technology-centric senior living organizations. Because of donor vision and generosity, that goal is quickly becoming a reality.

One clear example is Asbury’s exclusive Kinnections Brain Health Program. Now a systemwide initiative available at each of our six continuing care retirement communities, Kinnections places brain health at the center of daily life.

“We’re redefining what brain health looks like,” says Dr. Sue Paul, Asbury’s Director of Well-Being and Brain Health. “Our focus isn’t just on memory care — it’s about helping residents stay engaged, confident, and thriving. Donor support has given us the ability to accelerate this vision.”

Built on research and designed to be practical, Kinnections provides residents with insights and strategies to maximize cognitive function. The program combines assessment, goal setting, wellness, and therapy into a comprehensive approach to brain health.

Each participant completes a five-part neurocognitive assessment that evaluates multiple domains of cognition and movement. From there, they receive an individualized plan with exercise, activities, and lifestyle recommendations tailored to their unique strengths and challenges.

Innovation in Action

Kinnections is far more than traditional “brain games.” Residents are stepping into boxing classes that strengthen both body and memory, practicing dual-tasking exercises that stimulate neural connections, and even tackling rock climbing walls. These innovative activities are designed not only to protect brain health but also to build confidence and community.

And the results speak for themselves. Residents in the program are seeing measurable global cognitive improvements. After just one year of participation, 92 percent showed measurable improvement — or at least maintained their scores — on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a widely used screening tool for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and other cognitive challenges.

For those at risk of dementia, the impact is especially striking — 54 percent of residents who initially scored in the “Mild Cognitive Impairment” range improved to the “Normal Cognition” range or maintained their scores without decline.

Lowering Fall Risk While Building Brain Health

Donor-funded innovation is also helping residents move more safely and confidently. Many participants have improved their ability to dual-task — doing two things at once — which is an important factor in lowering fall risk. 

“When I moved to Springhill, the Brain Health program had just begun. It’s delivered on its promise — better balance, sharper focus, and improved memory — all while being fun,” says Springhill resident Barb Brairton. “My brain health coach keeps sessions engaging and adapts them to how I’m feeling that day. After six months, I’ve seen real improvements in my balance and focus, and I really feel an improvement in my memory and response time. We’re so fortunate to have this program here.”

As residents share how these exercises sharpen both body and mind, the science behind the program underscores their experiences. “These activities don’t just exercise the brain,” Sue says. “They build confidence, encourage social connection, and make wellness fun.”