Gray Cells is a program designed to exercise the body’s most important organ, the brain. Our team travels to private homes and assisted living communities across Connecticut, leading seniors in hour-long programs to help ward off dementia in a fun and interactive way.
Through a series of questions and activities, Gray Cells empowers seniors to maintain cognitive vitality and enhance their quality of life. We created our innovative program to help older adults stay mentally sharp. Our goal: to ward off dementia and slow cognitive decline while promoting fun and socialization.
During each program, our brain games coordinators offer 60 minutes of fun and interactive material. Our unique blend of trivia questions, music, photographs, and historic pop culture evokes memories from seniors' pasts and encourages even the quietest of participants to shout out an answer or two. At every Gray Cells session, we guarantee smiles, laughter, and even a few face palms as residents realize, "Oh right, I knew that one!"
By 2040, the population of individuals aged 65 and older in the United States will grow to about 80 million. Globally, this same age group is expected to double by 2050, reaching about 2.1 billion.
As you well know, cognitive decline is a significant issue facing this population with an estimated 10 percent of adults in this age group reporting dementia. Alzheimer’s Disease is just one of multiple disorders that can cause dementia and 6.7 million Americans over 65 suffered from this disease in 2023. This number is expected to increase to 12.7 million by 2050.
While there is no cure for dementia, there are ways in which the aging population can slow the progression of this frustrating disorder.
Keeping mentally active is one of the most important methods used to lower a person’s dementia risk. According to research conducted by Dr. Joe Verghese of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, the more mentally active a person is, the higher the chance they’ll be able to stave off dementia. He believes that cognitive activity can increase a person’s “cognitive reserve,” boosting a connection between the brain cells.
Staying socially engaged is another must when it comes to brain health. Research proves that loneliness and isolation can increase a person’s risk of dementia by 40 percent. That’s where Gray Cells comes in. Recognizing the critical role of social interaction in cognitive health, Gray Cells emphasizes community and connection. Our programs encourage seniors to engage with one another, share their stories, and build meaningful relationships, all while challenging themselves to answer quick and easy questions.
By fostering social connections through group activities, we promote a sense of belonging and support that enhances emotional well-being.
These activities are not competitive, so there’s no fear of failure. If a participant does not want to share their answers, they don't have to. Just simply trying the activities is enough to get what we call the "brain sludge" moving, clearing out the proverbial cobwebs to encourage our brain cells to fire.
Shandley McMurray Brown is the CEO (Cerebrum Exercise Officer) of Gray Cells, a company dedicated to stimulating cognitive function in older adults to prevent and slow the progression of dementia. With an impressive career spanning over 30 years as a journalist, Shandley has devoted her expertise to covering a wide array of health topics, with a particular focus on conditions affecting the aging population.
Her extensive research into dementia and Alzheimer’s disease has been complemented by a personal journey; Shandley's father battled Alzheimer’s for eight years. This experience deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by those living with cognitive decline and ignited Shandley's passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others experiencing similar challenges. This personal connection has fueled her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for seniors through innovative cognitive engagement.
At Gray Cells, Shandley combines her in-depth research background and exceptional writing skills with her first-hand knowledge of dementia. With the help of her mother in-law, Jane Brown, a retired nurse, Shandley has developed programs that not only entertain but also engage and stimulate the minds of older adults. By leveraging activities that evoke memories and promote social connections, Shandley aims to create environments that foster emotional well-being and cognitive health.
Founder and CEO (Cerebrum Exercise Officer)
Games Co-Creator
Games Coordinator
Games Coordinator