What began as an educational resource for Wisconsinites is now reaching participants across the country and around the world. The Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center’s (ADRC) Healthy Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) educational program is drawing strong participation and positive feedback, connecting people across Wisconsin and beyond with science-backed education on brain health, Alzheimer’s disease prevention strategies and practical tools and resources to support living well with MCI.
The series is hosted by Nathaniel Chin, MD, a memory clinic physician with UW Health and medical director of the Wisconsin ADRC. Jennifer McAlister, BA, outreach and partnerships manager for the Wisconsin ADRC, serves as co-host. Sessions are free and open to everyone.
MCI is an intermediate stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more pronounced decline of dementia. People with MCI may have more memory problems than others their age, but their symptoms are not as severe as those associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Held live online via Zoom, the quarterly program is accessible from anywhere. In 2025, it reached participants in 34 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, Sweden, Luxembourg, India, Ireland and the United Kingdom. The program also partnered with nine Aging and Disability Resource Centers across Wisconsin to livestream sessions for local audiences and connect participants with resources, including dementia care specialists. In 2026, the program expanded to 10 host sites statewide, with more locations expected.
“I am thrilled to see this program reaching more people impacted by memory and thinking changes in the earliest stages and even before changes are being experienced. My hope is that this education series gives individuals concerned about their brain health the agency and confidence to incorporate science-backed lifestyle changes into their daily lives, discuss concerns with their doctor and connect with helpful resources and support to continue living well,” McAlister said.
Participant feedback shows increased understanding of MCI and greater confidence in making healthy lifestyle choices that support brain health. Connecting with others facing similar challenges can help reduce the stigma and isolation often associated with memory and thinking changes, while building a sense of community.
Sessions address topics such as building healthy habits and routines and the benefits of physical activity, nutrition and stress management, helping participants feel informed, empowered and supported.
The Healthy Living with MCI program reflects the Wisconsin ADRC’s ongoing commitment to advancing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) research, education and community outreach through resources that support individuals, families and communities affected by cognitive change.
UPCOMING SESSION
Healthy Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Unpacking Ultra-Processed Foods
Friday, March 6, 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Register to join us for the first installment of the 2026 Healthy Living with MCI education series to learn what ultra-processed foods are and explore why people who eat less of these packaged foods tend to have better health outcomes. Participants will gain confidence in making food choices that support their brain health and overall well-being. The program will end with a Q&A session.
RESOURCES
What is Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment?
Next Steps After Diagnosis: Resources for Those Newly Diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Healthy Living with MCI on YouTube
Listen to “What Now? Next Steps After Receiving an MCI Diagnosis” on the Dementia Matters podcast, featuring guest and Healthy Living with MCI co-host Jennifer McAlister
Listen to “Our Evolving Understanding of Mild Cognitive Impairment” on the Dementia Matters podcast, featuring guest Ron Petersen, MD, PhD
Listen to “Defining Mild Cognitive Impairment with Dr. Chin” on the Dementia Matters podcast
