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Since Vi at La Jolla Village opened its doors, residents have enjoyed a diverse calendar of activities and programming designed with a holistic approach to aging well. Whether it's joining weekly walking groups, attending thought-provoking guest lectures or participating in creative art classes, there's always an opportunity to learn, connect and live every day to the fullest.
And now, residents have a new way to engage their minds and bodies: by working out at the community’s Brain Vitality Studio.
But what is a Brain Vitality Studio?
“It’s like a regular gym that offers workouts like the treadmill or weight training,” said Vi at La Jolla Village Lifestyle Director Mellany Hanson. “But it's dedicated to working the brain and the body at the same time through ‘exergaming’—exercising and gaming.”
The new facility, located next to the community’s fitness studio, is equipped with four unique dual-tasking machines (think tapping your head and reciting the alphabet backward at the same time) designed to push users cognitively in a safe and fun environment.
Powered by research
Vi at La Jolla Village launched the Brain Vitality Studio in response to the growing interest in brain health not just among 93% of older adults nationwide, but also among the 82% of our residents who expressed a desire for brain health programs.
“Given this overwhelming interest, the Brain Vitality Studio plays a critical role in addressing these needs and enhancing the quality of life for our residents,” said Stephanie Boudreau, Executive Director of Vi at La Jolla Village.
Vi worked with medical equipment manufacturer Dividat to conduct a 12-week case study with 33 residents using the Senso, a machine that tasks users with stepping on four panels that correlate with images on the screen.
The study showed an 11% improvement in reaction time and a 22% reduced error rate during gameplay among participating residents, indicating improved cognition.
“There is a common misconception that the brain can’t be changed and that if you have memory challenges, that’s just too bad,” said Mellany. “We now have reason to believe that is not true.”
Holistic benefits for seniors
The studio offers residents of all abilities the opportunity to participate in small group workshops, education and circuit training, and personal training focused on brain health and fitness.
The community has two kinesiologists—who also hold Brain Health Trainer Certifications through the Functional Aging Institute—to show residents how to use the equipment. And those who use the machines properly, they say, have a lot to gain.
“Research consistently shows us that exergaming improves cognitive function, specifically in executive function, attention and memory,” said Fitness Coordinator Ruth Scritchfield. “Additionally, dual-tasking has been shown to improve gait and balance in older adults.”
Mellany says that participating in dual-tasking games in the Brain Vitality Studio also offers another benefit—it’s fun.
“These active video games require physical interaction, making exercise more enjoyable and less monotonous,” said Mellany. “A resident last week was so engrossed in the game she forgot she was exercising.”
Exercising a balanced lifestyle
According to Stephanie, the Brain Vitality Studio is just one way Vi at La Jolla Village is always evolving—an important aspect of holistic wellness.
“By incorporating the Brain Vitality Studio into our community, we reinforce our commitment to providing innovative, research-based wellness programs that empower residents to take charge of their health and well-being across all dimensions—mind, body and spirit,” said Stephanie.
