Brain Health Block Party July 10 on Seattle’s First Hill

The second annual Brain Health Block Party will take place on Seattle’s First Hill from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10. This event features outdoor brain-healthy activity stations spread throughout the neighborhood. Attendees can solve a puzzle, make trail mix, play games, create art and more.

Initiated by the Memory Hub, a community center operated by the UW Medicine Memory and Brain Wellness Center at Harborview Medical Center, the event celebrates easy steps people can take to promote brain health. These include staying active, reducing stress, challenging our minds, connecting with others, and eating a healthy diet. 

The event is also designed to build awareness about memory loss and dementia. 

“We are enthusiastically counting down the days until the second annual Brain Health Block Party,” said Katie Zeitler, a program manager with the UW Memory and Brain Wellness Center. “Brain health and social connection are important for everyone. We look forward to celebrating brain health with our community.” 

Nine organizations are partnering to produce this year’s event by offering activities at these locations:

• The Memory Hub (1021 Columbia St.)
• Frye Art Museum (704 Terry Ave.)
• Murano Senior Living (620 Terry Ave.)
• Skyline Retirement Community (715 Ninth Ave.)
• St. James Cathedral (804 Ninth Ave.)
• Horizon House (900 University St.)
• Swedish First Hill (747 Broadway Ave.) 
• Town Hall Seattle (1119 8th Ave.)
• Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (1201 Terry Ave.)

Each of the participating organizations is committed to supporting older adults and the community at large. Ildiko Pikali, director of life enrichment for Horizon House, noted, “Horizon House is excited to be a part of raising awareness about brain health and aging by participating in the First Hill Brain Health Block Party in partnership with like-minded organizations. We hope to demonstrate the unique and enriching lifestyle that exists in this diverse community, as well as how it contributes to overall well-being and mental health.”

Jessica Baloun, community engagement & outreach manager with Town Hall Seattle, agreed.

 “As an arts and culture organization dedicated to fostering an engaged community,” Baloun said, “Town Hall is thrilled to join our First Hill neighbors and participate in the Brain Health Block Party this year. We hope to see familiar faces and meet new community members as we enjoy activities that promote cognitive health.” 

Visiting all nine stations covers about 1 mile. The event is free and family-friendly. People of all ages are welcome, especially adults over age 50.

An event map can be picked up at any participating location or downloaded in advance. Attendees can collect stamps at each station. Those who visit at least three stations earn a chance to win a brain-health raffle prize. 

For details about UW Medicine, please visit http://uwmedicine.org/about.