This experience also provided insight into how older adults perceive and address cognitive aging themselves. It resonated with me personally, as my uncle has early-onset Alzheimer’s and relies on community-based interventions for support. His situation has heightened my interest in the role of outpatient and at-home interventions in preserving functional independence and quality of life. Given that social isolation is a major risk factor for cognitive decline, I was particularly intrigued by how YoungHappy fosters interpersonal connections as a neuroprotective strategy. Having studied public health and participated in health initiatives in Los Angeles, I recognize that aging-related cognitive decline is not just a neurological issue but a multidimensional challenge. Addressing it effectively requires collaboration between healthcare systems, policymakers, and community-driven initiatives.
This internship experience provided insight into how older adults perceive and address cognitive aging, which resonated with me on a personal level, as a family member has early-onset Alzheimer's. Given that social isolation is a significant risk factor for cognitive decline, I was intrigued by how interpersonal connections can be a neuroprotective strategy. Having studied public health in Los Angeles, I now recognize that age-related cognitive decline is not only a neurological issue but a multidimensional challenge, and addressing it effectively requires collaboration between healthcare systems, policy makers, and community initiatives.