July 10, 2025

Brain health fair set for July 15 at the REC

Everyone is invited to attend the inaugural free “10 Ways to Love Your Brain” Health and Wellness Fair, set for 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday, July 15, at the Student Recreation Center. SIU nursing students and the Alzheimer’s Association are sponsoring the family-friendly event, with support from Recreational Sports and Services. The fair will feature activities for all ages to promote brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Participants can enjoy a variety of special attractions, including interactive booths, games, the climbing wall (parental supervision required for people under age 18) and much more. Educational opportunities, giveaways, fun activities and 10 health-related vendor booths will fill the Alumni Lounge and surrounding area.

The brain health fair is one of the service-learning projects nursing students are undertaking this year to expand their education while helping others. Organizers hope to make the fair an annual happening.

Free parking will be available in Lot 45, located south of the Student Recreation Center across E. Grand Ave.

All of the activities and options are inspired by the “10 Ways to Love Your Brain” initiative from the Alzheimer’s Association. They include:

  • Protect your head.
  • Be smoke-free.
  • Get moving.
  • Challenge your mind.
  • Control your blood pressure.
  • Manage diabetes.
  • Sleep well.
  • Stay in school.
  • Eat right.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.

For more information, contact Debra Penrod, assistant professor of nursing, at debra.penrod@siu.edu or 618-453-8806 or Becky Doiron of the Alzheimer’s Association at bdoiron@alz.org or 618-319-7396.