We talked this week with Julia Zeuner, Director of 92NY’s 60+ Programs, and Elizabeth Tarr, Clinical Director of 92NY’s 60+ Programs, about 92NY’s new Program for Cognitive Strength and Ability (PCSA).
The onset of cognitive decline can leave people feeling isolated, estranged from things they once loved, even ashamed. A new 92NY initiative, the Program for Cognitive Strength and Ability (PCSA), was conceived to enrich the quality of life of those facing the challenges of early cognitive decline by providing social connection in a supportive, non-judgmental environment, and activities clinically designed to stimulate cognitive function. “It’s a program like no other in New York City,” says Julia Zeuner, Director, 92NY’s 60+ programs, “and it’s making a profound difference in people’s lives.”
The program was launched in February 2022 with a cohort of 8-10 participants, placed together to reflect the interests and needs of their participants. “These are people who have lived in a sophisticated world, with intellectually stimulating careers and experiences” says Zeuner. “Through this program, they have become not only friends, but colleagues, talking about and debating things that are significant, the way they did with their professional peers.”
The cohort meets in person at 92NY for three-hour sessions twice a week. Zeuner conceived the protocol with Elizabeth Tarr, Clinical Director, 92NY’s 60+ Programs. Together, they run the program, which is designed around a foundation of cognitive stimulation therapy (CST). Each session begins with an introductory orientation, a discussion of current events, and a music segment. “Music has a way of stimulating the brain in a whole different way than language – it’s remarkable what it taps,” says Tarr.
Fitness follows music, with a session designed and facilitated by a specialized trainer from 92NY’s May Center for Health, Fitness & Sport, who guides the group through exercises for balance, stability, coordination, and more. “Fitness is a critical component of the program,” says Zeuner. “Everything we do is deliberate and designed to have maximum impact on cognitive functioning and the activities of daily living.”
The final hour of each session focuses on language and culture, with a performance and/or presentation by a professional artist or speaker. There have been live classical and jazz performances, a talk by a speech pathologist on how the brain processes information, a presentation by an actor involving the use of dramatic masks, and more. “It is never simply a concert or such – there is always discussion,” says Zeuner. “People in the group want interaction and engagement – they want to be able to learn and grow.” New and multi-sensory experiences are proven to strengthen cognitive function, and the program maximizes this. “People can continue to build neural pathways, even if they are experiencing cognitive decline,” says Zeuner. “It’s why this program is so vital."
This first cohort of the Program for Cognitive Strength and Ability just began its fourth iteration, with 85% of its original members. Two additional cohorts will begin in September. Complementing the program is a free monthly online program, the Family and Friends Support Series, with expert speakers sharing valuable resources and information to help those caring for, or dear to, people experiencing cognitive loss.
Reflecting on the program, Tarr says, “The social isolation that can accompany cognitive decline is intense. This program provides a place where participants can break through their isolation and find meaningful social interaction – where they can have stimulating new experiences in a very literal way, transcend the stigma of their diagnosis, and reclaim some semblance of their intellectually-rich pre-diagnosis lives.”
“Our goal is to create a safe, comfortable space where people can be supported, where they can express themselves unapologetically," says Zeuner. "For me, it’s all about recognizing and respecting the person behind their cognitive challenges, improving their quality of life, and providing them with the dignity they deserve. I can’t think of anything more important.”
The new 92NY Program for Cognitive Strength and Ability is made possible with the generous support of Madaleine and Arnold Penner in memory of Rosalind Cohen Joelson.
Learn more about the program at 92NY.org/PCSA.