The power of neuroscience-informed design.
Cognitive impairment is a major health and social issue due to a rapidly aging population. While it is important to understand neurobiological causes and protective factors of age-related cognitive decline, evidence also indicates the brain can generate new cells and grow, even as it ages. Research suggests our environments can positively affect brain structures, thereby slowing cognitive decline. This interactive session blends neuroscience and empathy to explore how design can go beyond prevention to promote brain health and positive stereotypes of aging. An open-source report with design prompts and interactive empathy exercises will be shared as a foundation for this evidence-based ideation session.