Invitations to participate in the Brain Health Initiative (BHI) brain health pilot study will soon be arriving in the mailboxes of randomly selected Lakewood Ranch adult residents. The overarching Brain Health Initiative is working to create brain healthy communities that proudly protect brain health, promote optimal performance, fight brain illness (for people of all ages), while decreasing the gap between lifespan and “brainspan.”

The study includes a confidential, online questionnaire and series of cognitive computer games. Participants will be asked about current health habits, medical conditions, social relationships, recreational activities, as well as experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants will also be asked to share information about health behaviors such as exercise, nutrition, smoking, alcohol usage, sleep patterns, as well as demographic information.

“Understanding what causes brain health problems and how best to prevent brain illness remains one of the biggest medical mysteries of our time,” said Dr. Jennifer Bencie, Health Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County. “Especially now – when discoveries related to brain health and brain illness, across the lifespan are critically needed worldwide – I hope every community member who is contacted will step-up to help this team of scientists and our region by participating in the study.”

Community participation is a critical component of the BHI pilot study. Andy Guz, CEO of Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, points out that area residents have a rare opportunity to participate in the pilot of what will become a world-class comprehensive initiative of brain health to create brain healthy communities.