MindWorks is a memory enhancement program offered by Lutheran Social Services in Appleton, WI that meets Monday through Thursday from 10am to 3pm. The program provides cognitive, creative, and physical activities in small group classes of up to 12 people to help maintain or improve memory function. Participants have experienced conditions like Alzheimer's, strokes, or other issues affecting memory. A typical day includes brain exercises, discussion, creative activities, physical activity, and meals. The program aims to slow cognitive decline, provide social support, and offer caregiver respite. The cost is less than $8.50 per hour and some funding options are available. Transportation is provided by drivers, family, or transit services. There is no set limit to

1. MindWorks
A Memory Enhancement Program Of
Lutheran Social Services

2. What is MindWorks
 Mindworks is guided by evidenced based curriculum, providing a‐
proactive approach to improving or maintaining memory function,
exercising the brain through various cognitive, creative and physical
activities. See link below for more info :
– https://www.lsswis.org/LSS/Programs-Services/Senior-Living/Memory-Loss-Program
 Where is Mindworks held?
Lutheran Social Services 3003 North Richmond Street, Appleton WI
 When is MindWorks?
– Monday & Wednesday 10:00 am to 3:00pm
– Tuesday & Thursday 10:00am to 3:00pm
 How large is a Mindworks class ?
– Up to 12 people can be in each class

3. Past Participants have had
memory issues caused by:
 Medications
 Sleep Deprivation
 Depression and stress
 Head Injury
 Strokes
 Dementia (Vascular, Lewy Bodies, Frontotemporal)
 Alzheimer's Disease
 Huntington's Disease
 Tumors
 Infections that affect the brain
 Parkinson Disease
 Excessive Alcohol, Tobacco or Drug use
 Cognitive impairment after use of anesthetics for surgeries

4. Mindworks Classes

5. A Typical Day at MindWorks
 Warm-up with humor, trivia, and news
 Discuss the topic of the day
 Engage in creative activities
 Dine with fellow participants
 Participate in a physical activity
 Exercise the brain
 Review the day
 Homework

6. Benefits of MindWorks
 Provides research-based activities and exercises; some
research shows it slows the process of decline in progressive
memory loss.
 Creates and maintains social connections
 Develops helpful memory strategies
 Increases knowledge through educational opportunities
 Informs about useful community resources
 Exercises your brain and your body
 Provides caregivers support
 Connects you to a supportive and fun group
 Decreases depression;
 Provides respite for care-givers
 Offers a safe environment for people with memory loss to work
together, develop relationships.

7. How much does MindWorks cost?
 Less than $8.50 an hour. Mindowrks average 8 hours per week
including 2 meals a week.
 Private pay
 Qualify for The Wisconsin Alzheimer's Family and Caregiver
Support Program (AFSCP) through the Aging & Disability
Resource Center (ADRC of Calumet, Outagamie, and Waupaca
Counties: 866-739-2372)
 Check with your Insurance to see if they would cover the cost of
the class.
How is Mindworks paid for?

8. How do group members get to
and from MindWorks?
 Independent drivers
 Family members
 Valley Transit II
 Make the Ride Happen

9. How long do people continue in
Mind Works?
 As long as it is of benefit to them.
 They are able to actively and appropriately
participate.
 It becomes a regular part of their weekly schedule.
 Members are able to independently use the restroom

10. How do I get my family member in to the
MindWorks program?
 Contact one of the class facilitators
– Sandra Sandee, OTR 920 225-1712
(Tuesday & Thursday class)
– Katrina Currier, OTA 920 225-1708
(Monday & Wednesday class)
 Individuals may attend for 1-2 free sessions to “trial”
the class to determine if it is a good fit.