Supporting Cognitive Health: Fitness for the Brain and Beyond
How CCRCs like Edgehill Support Cognitive Health Through Lifelong Learning

Cognitive health plays a vital role in overall well-being, especially for older adults—and it thrives in environments where learning, engagement and connection are part of daily life. Just as regular physical activity supports mobility and strength, stimulating the brain through lifelong learning, social connection and creativity is essential for maintaining mental sharpness, memory and emotional resilience.
Both physical and cognitive health are vital pillars of aging well. Community-centered environments like Edgehill, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) located in Stamford, CT., are designed to support both—helping residents stay active, engaged and thriving in every sense.
Cognitive Engagement Begins with Curiosity
“It’s extremely important to do everything you can to exercise your mind,” says Stephen Myers, an 88-year-old resident at Edgehill, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Stamford, Connecticut. “It sounds like a truism but the more you use your mind the sharper it is.”
Myers, a retired physicist, is deeply involved in promoting intellectual programming. As a member of the Greenwich Retired Men’s Association (RMA), he organizes screenings of recorded RMA lectures for fellow residents. A recent talk by a Supreme Court justice drew a large and enthusiastic audience.
Expanding Minds Through Expert-Led Events
Edgehill offers a steady stream of live and recorded lectures, covering topics that range from opera and art to climate science and global affairs.
“We also get live speakers that range over every topic,” says Myers. “Residents frequently hear invited experts speak on such topics as art, opera, history, health, climate change and foreign affairs. They’re serious topics and moderately technical.”
These events help foster cognitive health by encouraging residents to think critically, ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue.

Resident-Led Initiatives That Drive Purpose
Edgehill empowers residents to help shape their own community experience. The Legislative Committee organizes visits from local, state and federal candidates, offering residents a platform for civic engagement. The Social Action Committee facilitates volunteer and fundraising efforts that connect residents with causes that matter to them.
To support digital literacy—a growing component of cognitive health—Edgehill also provides technology workshops and personal coaching sessions. Residents can learn to navigate smartphones, tablets and computers with confidence, ensuring they remain connected and informed.
Social Engagement Supports Mental Wellness
Studies show that social and intellectual engagement can help delay cognitive decline and reduce the risk of conditions like dementia. Programs like Edgehill’s virtual book discussions offer cognitive stimulation while also strengthening interpersonal bonds.
“Our activities—many of which are resident driven—provide both stimulation and connection,” says Maureen Jennings, director of resident services. “The enthusiasm for our programming proves that learning is a lifelong experience and that curiosity continues to motivate us far into our senior years.”
Enriching Experiences Through Art and Culture
For Sam Samaha, age 98, staying active includes regular exercise and attending lectures and museum trips. His participation in Edgehill’s art education programs has transformed how he engages with visual art.
“Going to a museum can be a real learning experience,” he says, reflecting on guided trips to the Metropolitan Museum of Art with lecturer Helane Rheingold. “Before, I’d go to museums and I’d rush by. Now we take the time to slow down and really see what the painter was trying to say.”
These types of enriching cultural experiences enhance cognitive health by sparking reflection and creative thought.
Celebrating Lifelong Learning and Resident Talents
Edgehill also offers a variety of clubs and creative outlets, including music and ballet performances, knitting groups and strategy games like bridge and mahjong. One of the community’s most anticipated events is the annual resident art show, which features original paintings, photography and sculpture created by residents.
“Every year all of us are amazed at the quality and imagination that goes into their work,” says Myers.
A Community That Inspires
“Edgehill sometimes feels like a university,” says Jennings. “We have so many accomplished residents who share their interests and life experiences with their neighbors, who in turn are always eager to learn something new. They enrich each other’s lives.”
Through dynamic programming, peer-led initiatives, and opportunities for connection, CCRCs like Edgehill offer an environment where cognitive health is nurtured daily—and where curiosity truly knows no age.
and enhance mental health. That is why our community offers discussion-based book clubs, museum outings, game nights, art classes and more—creating endless opportunities to interact, create and learn together.
Resident Sam Samaha, 98, credits art lectures and guided museum trips with deepening his appreciation of the arts. “Before, I’d rush through the galleries,” he says of visits to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. “Now I slow down and really see what the artist was trying to say.”
Creativity, Curiosity and Connection
The annual art show is a favorite tradition at Edgehill, highlighting painting, sculpture and photography created by residents. “Every year we’re amazed at the quality and imagination on display,” says Myers.
“Edgehill sometimes feels like a university,” adds Maureen Jennings, director of resident services. “We have so many accomplished residents who share their interests and life experiences—and their neighbors are always eager to learn. They enrich each other’s lives.”
Dynamic programming, meaningful social interaction and a strong culture of lifelong learning all come together to support cognitive health—proving that curiosity truly knows no age at Edgehill.