Course Overview
Did you know science shows cognitive function can improve through targeted lifestyle interventions?
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your focus or support memory into the future, this course translates this science into practical and structured strategies that you can understand and apply in everyday life. Learn how to reduce your risk of cognitive decline, protect your brain to support a vibrant and independent life.
Together, we’ll look at the major risk factors for cognitive decline and how to reduce them through practical steps in food, nutrients, movement, sleep, stress management, and sensory input – the very steps shown in the science to improve cognitive function and reduce your risk of decline. You’ll learn why these changes matter, what to do, and how to do them in a way that fits your life.
Choose healthy steps and put them into practice each week. Through guided discussions, shared experiences, and practical resources, you’ll build confidence and create lasting habits – finding your own path to sharper thinking, stronger memory, and long-term cognitive health.
Macquarie Community College operates from a range of venues across Northern and Western Sydney. We have campuses in Blacktown, Carlingford, Chatswood, Epping, Mt Druitt, Richmond, and Ryde. Enrol now!
What you will learn
Course outline
Each week, you’ll explore the what, why, and how of the following topics:
- Your Brain, Your Future: Discover how international studies show improvements in cognitive function and set personal goals to reduce your risk
- Eating for Brain Health: Learn about beneficial and detrimental foods, and take practical steps to build a brain-healthy plate
- Restorative Sleep: Understand the importance of sleep for memory, detox, and brain repair, and establish effective bedtime routines
- Move for Memory (Exercise): Explore the science of movement and its benefits for brain health, and find enjoyable, sustainable exercises
- Nutrients: Learn about key nutrients for brain support
- Stress, Mood & Resilience: Discover tools for resilience, including mindfulness and relaxation, and practice guided calming exercises
- Cognitive & Sensory Stimulation: Engage your senses with proven activities to strengthen brain pathways and boost neuroplasticity
- Putting It All Together: Recap the science-backed steps, complete your personal plan, celebrate your progress, and plan for sustained brain health
- Benefit from a blend of guided discussions, community support, and practical tools
Please note: This is a guide only.
Course outcome
By the end of this course you will have:
- Learnt about the key risk factors for cognitive decline and their importance
- Followed a framework for making meaningful changes in food, movement, stress management, sleep, and more
- Gained insights from group discussions to deepen your understanding and motivation and applied practical healthy changes to your lifestyle
- Left with confidence and momentum to continue your cognitive health journey, empowered to protect your memory and shape your future
What you need to know
Entry requirements
No prior experience, as this course is suitable for a beginner.
What you need to provide
- Pen
- Notepad
Other information
- Students sign a medical/ information form at the first class.
- Prerequisite Acknowledgement By enrolling in this course, you acknowledge that all content provided is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition, nor does it constitute medical advice. Any health-related decisions should be made in consultation with a personalised qualified healthcare provider.
- If you are new to exercise or have a pre-existing condition, please seek information from your GP before participating.