Supporting Brain Health a Awareness on San Juan Island

At the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center, we are expanding our efforts to support brain health and increase awareness around cognitive changes in our community. This work is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring islanders have access to information, support, and practical tools as they age.

Over the coming months, we will be sharing a series of free, evidence-based resources that can help individuals, caregivers, families, and organizations navigate memory concerns.

Below are several outstanding resources available right now.

Memory Navigator Consultation Services

Free 30-Minute One-on-One Consultations

If you or a loved one are experiencing memory concerns, you do not have to navigate next steps alone.

The Memory Navigator Consultation Service offers free 30-minute consultations to help individuals and families:

• Understand memory changes
• Explore next steps
• Connect with appropriate support services

This is a confidential, supportive conversation designed to provide clarity and direction.

Learn more or schedule a consultation here:
https://thememoryhub.org/page/memory-navigator

Memory Loss: A Guide to Next Steps

If you are unsure what to do after noticing memory changes, this guide offers practical, step-by-step information to help you move forward with confidence.

The guide covers:

• When to talk to a healthcare provider
• How to prepare for appointments
• What evaluations may include
• Planning and support considerations

Download the guide here:
https://depts.washington.edu/mbwc/content/thememoryhub-files/Memory_Loss_2026-_A_Guide_to_next_steps.pdf

This resource is clear, compassionate, and designed for families at any stage of the journey.

Dementia Friendly America Sector Guides

Building a dementia-friendly community takes all of us.

The Sector Guides from Dementia Friendly America provide practical guidance for different types of organizations and businesses that want to become more welcoming and supportive of people living with dementia.

If your organization, business, school, faith community, or workplace is interested in learning more, we can help.

We have two trained facilitators on staff who are available to provide a two-hour, in-person training for teams who want to better understand dementia and improve accessibility and inclusion.

To express interest in a training, please contact us directly at (360) 378-5246.

10 Healthy Habits for Brain Health

Brain health is lifelong. Research shows that healthy habits can help lower the risk of cognitive decline, even for people with a family history of dementia.

Learn more about the 10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain through the University of Washington Memory Hub:

https://thememoryhub.org

Healthy habits include staying physically active, managing blood pressure and diabetes, eating nourishing foods, challenging your mind, getting quality sleep, protecting your head, and maintaining strong social connections.

It is never too early or too late to start.

Virtual Empowered Caregiver Series

Free Five-Part Series | Starts June 5 | 5–6 PM

Sign up HERE.

Caregiving can be both meaningful and challenging. This free virtual series is designed to support caregivers through practical education and connection.

Topics include:

• Navigating relationship changes
• Building your support team
• Managing caregiver stress
• Supporting independence

Participants may attend all sessions or select individual sessions that meet their needs.

This series is an excellent opportunity for caregivers seeking practical tools and community support.

Moving Forward Together

Brain health is a community issue. By increasing awareness, sharing resources, and building supportive environments, we can ensure that San Juan Island remains a place where people can age with dignity, connection, and care.

We will continue sharing additional resources and opportunities throughout the summer and fall. If you would like more information or are interested in dementia-friendly training for your organization, please contact the Joyce L. Sobel Family Resource Center.

Together, we can build a more informed, compassionate, and supportive island community.