Putting What Matters First: A Case-Based Approach to Goal Setting to Promote Older Adult Brain Health in the AgeWISE-Action Plan Program

Introduction Nonpharmacological lifestyle interventions can prevent age-related cognitive decline, but people find adhering to healthy habits challenging. The A ging W ell through I nteraction and S cientific E ducation – A ction P lan (AgeWISE-AP) program provides brain health and lifestyle group education followed by individualized goal setting sessions modeled on the VA Whole Health model. Objectives To use examples of the individualized healthy aging goals and strategies created in the AgeWISE-AP program action-plan sessions to demonstrate the importance of considering what matters most when working toward lifestyle change. Methods Veterans (cognitively intact, age ≥60) in the action-plan component of AgeWISE-AP participated in eight one-on-one sessions to create and implement individualized lifestyle goals to support positive brain health outcomes. Results Participants (n = 36) developed up to four unique SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) brain health goals, generating 120 goals across brain health domains. Case examples demonstrate the process of engagement, goal setting, and implementation. Conclusion Participation in a nonpharmacological intervention focused on individualized selection of lifestyle changing goals can support healthy brain aging. Understanding what matters most to older adults (their “why”), together with personal interests and activities that motivate them to consistently participate in behavior goals (their “what”), may aid in the success of such interventions.