This episode explores the important work of the Brain Exercise Initiative with Essene GumustekinIn this episode of 'Let's Talk Brain Health', Essene Gumustekin, an MDJD candidate at UCLA Medical School and Harvard Law School, founder of the Brain Exercise Initiative discusses her inspiration and commitment to improving brain health. The Brain Exercise Initiative is a non-profit organization that conducts brain exercise sessions for seniors across the US and Canada. The program, based on the work of Japanese neuroscientist Dr. Ruta Kawashima, involves seniors performing simple math and reading aloud for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, to significantly improve cognitive function and memory. Gumustekin further talks about the app they developed to make brain exercises accessible for everyone and her broader goals for the initiative, including potential international expansion and program digitization. The initiative also emphasizes the benefits of intergenerational connections for both students and seniors. 00:00 Introduction to Essene Gumustekin and the Brain Exercise Initiative 01:37 Essene's Personal Connection to Alzheimer's 02:35 The Research Behind the Brain Exercise Initiative 04:15 Mission and Goals of the Brain Exercise Initiative 04:55 The Key Components of the Brain Exercise Initiative 06:54 The Multigenerational Approach of the Program 13:54 The Challenges and Opportunities in Promoting Brain Exercise 17:10 The Future Growth of the Brain Exercise Initiative 19:44 Essene's Personal Brain Care Routine and Advice 22:36 Conclusion and Contact Information *Learn more about the Brain Exercise Initiative on their website or email [email protected] **Explore the research behind this initiative here. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/virtualbrainhealthcenter/support