“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

– Mary Oliver

What a thought-provoking question. So what are you planning to do to improve your life this year? We all start the New Year with grand plans to be a better person – more giving, healthier, more engaged in life, maybe a better caregiver?

But why is it so difficult to stay on track? Why is it that by February, we are back to our old ways?

Personally, I have always had better luck sticking to something if I have to be accountable. I know that if I go to a class, or do something with a group, my chance of success is better than if I go it alone.

I need to push the socialization; I do not fly well solo.

But give me a group and I will soar. Perhaps you will too. Let me share with you the amazing classes and seminars Memory Matters is rolling out in January 2018. There is power in numbers.

Connections. These three-hour classes are for those who want to keep challenging themselves alongside others who are interested in the same goal. This class is fun, engaging and challenging, and it takes place every Thursday.

Brain Boosters. I know you have heard of this eight-week jumpstart class. Think of it as joining a gym for your brain. And the best news is, we are offering the class in two locations: the Bluffton Library and Memory Matters. Invest in your brain and understand what keeps our brains healthy.

Memory Fest. Have fun and learn what helps to keep those neurons alive and well. Yes, we will learn more about exercise, diet and how music and laughter can help avoid having “ANTS” (automatic negative thoughts) crawling in your brain. Call for dates in January.

As always, Memory Matters is dedicated to supporting our caregivers with our respite programs and support groups. Make this the year that you, the caregiver, learn about how to take care of yourself and have a better quality of life with your loved one who has dementia.

Our staff can help and our programs are designed to engage your loved one in activities that enrich their lives. Let Memory Matters help you through this journey.

I hope that each of you can look forward to 2018 with a renewed sense of hope and a promise to yourself to make this your best year ever. We are here to help, so give us a call at 843-842-6688 or visit our website at www.memory-matters.org.

Karen Doughtie is assistant director of Memory Matters, serving Bluffton and Hilton Head. karen@memory-matters.org