Civic Coffee Recap: Brain Health

What can you do today to keep your brain healthy tomorrow?

That question guided Age Friendly Seattle’s and The Seattle Public Library’s July Civic Coffee at the Ballard Senior Center, where community members learned about brain health, neurological conditions, and everyday habits that can support healthy aging.

The panel featured Katie Zeitler, program manager for Dementia Friends Washington at the University of Washington Memory and Brain Wellness center, and Jennifer Gillick, program director for the Northwest Chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association. While dementia and Parkinson’s are two different neurological conditions, many of the same healthy habits can help protect the brain and prevent both.

Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects each person differently. While many people associate Parkinson’s disease with tremors, Gillick noted that tremors don’t affect everyone with PD. Common movement-related symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can include tremors, stiffness or rigidity, slowed movement, and balance and walking problems.

Less visible symptoms can include sleep problems, depression, anxiety, constipation, changes in blood pressure, and other changes involving the body’s automatic functions. Gillick described Parkinson’s disease as a “snowflake disease” because each person’s experience is unique.

Click on the image above to watch a video recording of the Civic Coffee on brain health (YouTube, 1:02:49).

Signs of brain health changes

It is important to understand the difference between normal aging and signs that require medical attention.

Zeitler explained that normal aging may include occasionally walking into a room and forgetting why, misplacing keys and later finding them, or forgetting someone’s name but remembering it later.

People should consider speaking with a healthcare provider if changes begin affecting daily life. Possible warning signs can include:

• Difficulty finding words or losing train of thought
• Trouble planning meals, trips, or activities
• Problems managing finances
• Changes in sleeping habits
• Changes in personality, mood, or behavior

She emphasized that dementia is not a normal part of aging, and noticing changes early can help people receive support.

Lifestyle habits that support brain health

The panelists shared several actions and habits that support the brain and our overall health, including:

• Keeping your brain active: Learn new things, read, play games, or try a new skill.
• Staying physically active: Regular movement supports brain and heart health.
• Protecting your hearing: Hearing loss can lead to social isolation, which is a risk factor for dementia.
• Getting enough sleep: Sleep allows the brain to repair itself.
• Staying socially connected: Relationships and community involvement are important for brain health.
• Protecting your vision and preventing falls: Regular checkups and safe environments can reduce risks.
• Managing stress and depression: Mental health is closely connected to brain health.
• Eating nutritious foods: A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, beans, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports overall wellness.

Gillick emphasized that exercise is one of the most important tools for people with Parkinson’s, and can include activities such as dance, yoga, boxing, cycling, and strength exercises. The goal is to find movement that people enjoy and can continue doing.

The panel also addressed the misconception that people living with dementia can no longer enjoy life. Zeitler explained that people with dementia can still socialize, maintain relationships, volunteer, and participate in activities they enjoy with the right support.

The discussion concluded with a reminder that small daily choices can have a lasting impact on brain health. Prioritizing sleep, staying active, reducing stress, learning new things, and remaining connected with others are all steps that support healthy aging.

Community announcement highlight

At the start of the event, a representative from Outdoors for All shared information about their free adaptive recreation programs, including accessible cycling opportunities for people with balance challenges, Parkinson’s, MS, or other mobility concerns. The program offers a variety of adaptive bikes, including recumbent trikes and hand cycles, allowing participants to stay active in safe environment.

Sound Transit also shared information about reduced fare programs available for seniors, people with disabilities, youth, and other eligible community members.

Contributor Siham Mohamed is a student at the University of Washington studying computer science and education policy. Mohamed is especially passionate about the intersection of technology, education, and community engagement, and how we can use research to create more accessible educational opportunities.