From bingo to math: Brain Exercise Initiative's impact in Augusta
Amy Zhou | Staff writer
On the morning of Sept. 8, Augusta University students arrived at Brookdale Senior Living, quickly filling the community with laughter and lively conversation. From playing bingo to speed-solving math worksheets, the Brain Exercise Initiative (BEI) organized an engaging and memorable volunteer opportunity for both students and residents.
The Brain Exercise Initiative is a nonprofit volunteer organization at Augusta University that uses simple brain exercises—such as math, writing, and reading—to improve cognitive function in individuals at risk of, or living with, Alzheimer’s disease in the Augusta community. Founded in 2020, the club has grown rapidly and now boasts a large and dedicated membership.
When Neeshu Prabakar, a junior at Augusta University and co-president of BEI, joined the club as a freshman, it was a very different organization.
“BEI’s popularity and engagement from the AU student community has just exploded,” Prabakar said. “We’re very happy that people are giving back to our community.”
Christy Eapen, a sophomore and BEI’s treasurer, shared why she decided to join during her first year at Augusta University.
“We had a high school chapter,” she said. “I thought it would be a good way to get involved with my community.”
For Eapen, BEI’s mission is personal.
“I had a grandfather who had Alzheimer’s,” Eapen said. “I saw how it took over his life—how he went from knowing my name when I visited India to not even knowing who I was the next time.”
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory and thinking skills. It is the most common type of dementia. In the United States, more than 7 million people are living with Alzheimer’s, and 1 in 9 people age 65 or older have the disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Abby Lee, a senior and vice president of BEI, had a similar experience.
“I also have a grandmother who was suffering from dementia, and it was very difficult to see,” Lee said.
Through BEI, Lee and other members have found meaningful ways to give back, forming connections and creating lasting memories.
“My favorite memory from the club was when we had a paint night last year,” said Ajay Athota, a sophomore and BEI’s social media manager. “It was a great way to get lots of people to show up and educate everyone in our community a little more about Alzheimer’s and dementia.”
Many students say their most impactful moments have come during monthly visits to Brookdale Senior Living.
“I had a chance to sit down with one of the seniors while we were playing bingo and have a conversation about their family,” said Aman Kalsi, a junior and BEI’s secretary. “They hadn’t had someone to talk to in a while, so it was nice to see how we were making a difference and making their Saturday a little happier.”
Volunteering at Brookdale is just one of the many activities BEI has planned for the year. The executive board has several goals, including expanding volunteer opportunities.
“For the past few years, we’ve primarily volunteered at the Brookdale in North Augusta,” Prabakar said. “This year, we’ve made a push to expand to multiple locations so we can offer more regular opportunities and give members experience in a variety of settings.”
According to Prabakar, working with different populations helps volunteers gain valuable experience and connect with more seniors who have been formally diagnosed with dementia.
Augusta University students attend the second BEI general meeting on September 22.
Another major goal for the Brain Exercise Initiative (BEI) this year is to increase undergraduate engagement.
Amy Jacob, a junior at Augusta University and co-president of BEI, said the organization plans to increase visibility on campus.
“We’re planning on tabling at some of the events that host student organizations,” Jacob said.
Examples of potential events include sorority functions and various student nights hosted by Augusta University.
“Dementia is such an important issue in today’s landscape, so we definitely want to be tabling at different events,” she added.
BEI emphasizes long-term commitment to volunteering and highlights how consistent service can create impact on both individual and community levels.
At Brookdale Senior Living, where BEI volunteers each month, students often sit with the same residents, allowing relationships to form and trust to build over time.
“Every Saturday I volunteered, I always sat with Ruth,” Jacob said. “We started where she wasn’t really interested in answering the questions during activities, but over time I saw her become more motivated to do the math questions.”
This type of progress is what inspires many BEI members to stay involved. Beyond playing bingo or completing brain exercise packets, the heart of the club lies in engagement.
“Being able to listen to people’s life stories is what a lot of people want,” said Abby Lee, a senior and vice president of BEI. “These seniors are mostly just in the home, and they don’t get to go wherever they want. That can really impact their mental health.”
Communication and active listening are central to BEI’s mission. The organization hopes that spreading these values will help bridge the generational gap while also supporting cognitive function.
BEI will host a Your Pie percentage night on Wednesday, Sept. 24, from 5 to 8 p.m. at 434 North Augusta Ave. All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
To stay updated with BEI and their activities, follow: @aug_bei on Instagram.
Contact Amy Zhou at amyzhou@augusta.edu.
