September is Healthy Aging Month

Posted by aprilwright on September 3rd, 2026 Posted in: Uncategorized

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Can you believe it is almost time for autumn? September 22nd marks the first day of fall, but all month long it is Healthy Aging Month: a dedicated time to recognize mental and social engagement as the National Institute of Aging’s recommendation for supporting cognitive health as we get older.

In observation of Healthy Aging Month, Region 1 would like to highlight St. Mary’s County of Department of Aging & Human Services’ resources on supporting cognitive health and long-term memory in older adults and individuals experiencing cognitive decline. With books, games, puzzles, and tactile activities, St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services’ has partnered with St. Mary’s County Libraries and Senior Activity Centers to create Memory Kits that provide stimulating and enjoyable activities that enhance cognitive function. Kits with themes such as art, travel, gardening, oceans, and sports are available to check out for free at available locations.

Many efforts were made in the design of the Memory Kit, including what Nicoletta Pollice, Community Programs & Outreach Manager for the St. Mary’s Department of Aging & Human Services, calls a person-centered approach. Knowing the individual’s life story, highlighting their current strengths rather than their deficiencies, building meaningful relationships, and protecting the dignity of an individual experiencing dementia or cognitive decline was taken into account when creating the Memory Kits and selecting the materials. Great care was taken when considering the criteria for the selected games and materials for the kits in that they had to be accessible, familiar, visually clear, and socially engaging. This great care is evident in the existing kits and the individuals who have experienced and enjoyed the kits themselves.

Learn more about the efforts being made at St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services for cognitive health in our recording of Region 1 Insights Series Webinar: Supporting Long-Term Memory and Cognitive Health of Older Adults.