Nurse Judith, Brain Health Equity Nurse Fellow

07/23/2026

Today, on Brain Health Day, let’s celebrate one of the most joyful ways to care for our brains—dance! Dancing is more than exercise; it challenges the brain by combining movement, balance, rhythm, coordination, and memory. It also lifts our mood, reduces stress, strengthens social connections, and supports overall brain health.

06/27/2026

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, in many parts of the are the backbone of the system. , in hospitals, clinics and nursing homes… We are there. We care… During the pandemic, too many of us died. Dr. Verrier, the beloved brother and | beam of his...

06/25/2026

This CHA Cares note is sent from Rachael Cross in recognition of your excellent contributions to our Community of Caring and Patient Experience of Care for the following contributions:

Service Standards
HRO Leader Behaviors
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Competencies

Reason:I cannot thank you enough, Judith for sharing your expertise and passion with Wellbeing and the entire organization for Alzheimer's Awareness month! The work you do is making a difference for our communities and our colleagues. People tell me they are learning so much through the Healthy Brain Challenge, and this was all created because you shared the idea and resources with me. Your presentation was incredible, and people were so engaged and inspired to make change and ask hard questions. You are an inspiration to me and I cannot wait to work with you again!

06/22/2026

Risk Factors and Statistics:
Judith noted that while Alzheimer's is often associated with the elderly, brain changes can begin 20 years before symptoms appear. Significant risk factors include age, genetics, and s*x, with two-thirds of those with Alzheimer's being women. There are notable health disparities, as African Americans are twice as likely and Latinos 1.5 times as likely to develop the disease, often exacerbated by chronic health conditions. In the United States, 7 million people live with dementia, and the disease is a leading cause of death, surpassing breast and prostate cancer combined.

06/22/2026

Introduction and Definition of Dementia: introduced Judith Laguerre, a geriatric nurse and brain health equity fellow, to lead a session on Alzheimer's disease and brain health. Judith explained that dementia is an umbrella term covering various conditions, including Alzheimer's, Lewy body disease, vascular dementia, and frontal temporal dementia. Alzheimer's disease is characterized as a progressive, irreversible condition that damages memory and thinking skills, with no current cure or remission.

06/22/2026

Summary
Educational session defined dementia, identified risk factors, and highlighted preventative strategies for improving long-term brain health.

Dementia Definitions and Risks
Dementia covers multiple conditions, with Alzheimer's disease identified as a progressive, irreversible illness. Significant health disparities exist, notably affecting African American and Latino communities through chronic conditions.

Prevention and Modifiable Factors
Forty percent of dementia cases are preventable by managing risk factors like hypertension, obesity, and sleep hygiene. Consistent mental stimulation and a healthy diet are crucial for cognitive maintenance.

Clinical Application and Outreach
Healthcare organizations are prioritizing the integration of routine brain health screenings into standard patient care. Community education remains a critical focus for addressing health equity.

06/19/2026

05/28/2026