How an ElderCare Volunteer Learned About the Importance of Brain Health Coaching
John McGeehan
John McGeehan initially signed up with the Mindr program because he thought it would help him be a better doula to the infirm elderly he visits through the Doula Program to Accompany and Comfort.
In a twist he didn’t see coming, it’s helping him age better.
McGeehan is a Sr. Business Analyst with the New York City Mayor’s Office of Contract Services, with a long career at the intersection of technology, procurement, and marketing services. He’s also a devoted volunteer, visiting with a 93-year-old writer once a week whom he describes as “a fascinating conversationalist”.
“I initially thought Mindr’s digital coaching platform would apply to the people I work with, like the writer, but as I’m learning new things about brain health, I’m learning things I can apply,’’ John says.
Mastering Blood Pressure Control
John, 69, was recently diagnosed with a mild blood pressure problem and needed to take his readings regularly. Maintaining blood pressure in the optimal range is critical to brain health as it keeps the vascular system healthy. It’s one of the keys to preventing dementia.
When he mentioned the blood pressure issue to his Mindr behavioral coach, he received information on how blood pressure readings change depending on the position you are in when you take the reading.
The Benefits of a Curated Brain Health Program
It’s part of what makes Mindr’s program unique. It’s not just a daily brain game, or a random email with nutrition or exercise advice – it curates information based on a client’s input. “I learned about the different ways to take your blood pressure and why I might be getting different readings,’’ John said. “And I now understand now what it means when I get dizzy. And I’m talking with my doctor more effectively.’’
John is particularly pleased with Mindr’s emphasis on changing behavior slowly and only offering clinically tested solutions and ideas.
“There is this background given at the beginning. Here is the study and here is what works. Mindr doesn’t expect you to make dramatic changes; it’s the small things that help you develop healthy habits.’’
He’s enjoyed the recipe suggestions that come with Mindr coaching and finds the mind training education fascinating.
And what started out as a quest to help his doula clients has become a mindset shift John believes will serve him well going forward. “I tell all my friends, you have to start thinking about yourself as an older person and seeing that you have to treat your body differently than you did when you were 20.’’
