Brain Health Meets Innovation: Inside the Kinnections Program with Dr. Sue Paul
In this episode of the Smart Aging™ Podcast, host Karina Stickle sits down with Dr. Sue Paul, Senior Director of Wellbeing and Brain Health at Asbury Communities, to explore how technology, lifestyle, and innovation are reshaping the way we think about cognitive aging. With over 30 years of experience as an occupational therapist and founder of Seniorscapes, Dr. Paul shares how her groundbreaking Kinnections program is pushing brain health beyond crossword puzzles and into the future.
What Is the Kinnections Program?
Developed by Dr. Paul and grounded in research, the Connections program is a multi-dimensional brain health initiative that focuses on preventative strategies proven to reduce the risk of dementia by up to 45%. The name “Kinnections” (K-I-N) is a nod to movement—kinetic energy—and the importance of creating new neural pathways through physical and cognitive challenge.
Rather than waiting for symptoms to appear, the program encourages early, proactive engagement with the brain through assessments, coaching, and dynamic interventions.
The Brain Health Coach: A New Role for a New Need
At the heart of the program is the brain health coach—a non-clinical but trained team member who guides residents through cognitive assessments, interprets results, and helps design personalized wellness strategies. Residents are assessed across seven cognitive domains, not just memory, to identify their strengths and areas for improvement. From there, they’re matched with activities that support their specific cognitive needs.
Rock Climbing, Boxing, and Playing to the Brain’s Strengths
One of the most talked-about aspects of the Connections program is its bold, movement-based design. Residents engage in novel physical challenges like:
- Rock wall climbing (yes, really—22 feet high!)
- Boxing sessions tailored for cognitive engagement
- Dual-tasking activities that combine physical movement with mental agility
These activities activate neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to build new connections—and challenge participants in ways that improve both brain and body.
“Climbing the wall may sound risky,” Sue says, “but it’s safer than pickleball. And the confidence residents gain is unmatched.”
The Brain Gym: Where Tech Meets Cognitive Fitness
The program also includes a tech-based brain gym, featuring tools like Senso, SmartFit, and LudoFit. These gamified systems engage the whole body while testing balance, reaction time, and decision-making. The workouts are short, personalized, and highly social—filled with energy, laughter, and even a little healthy competition.
Residents rotate through circuit-based stations, with data captured in real-time. Progress is tracked automatically, offering immediate feedback and long-term insights.
Embracing AI — With Caution and Purpose
AI plays a growing role in Connections, particularly in tracking and predicting cognitive trends. Wearables and smart assessments can detect subtle changes in behavior, movement, or speech patterns, potentially forecasting decline. But with that power comes concern.
“Residents are worried—what if tech tells me I’m declining before I’m ready to hear it?” Sue explains. “That loss of independence is a real fear.”
For now, AI is being used carefully, balancing the benefits of early intervention with resident trust and privacy.
Real Data, Real Outcomes
Connections doesn’t just rely on anecdotal evidence—it’s backed by serious data collection. From baseline assessments to ongoing tracking, the program measures cognitive progress, engagement levels, and even improvements in physical health, like:
- Increased muscle mass and bone density
- Lowered blood pressure and glucose levels
- Reduced anxiety and depression scores
A full-time data analyst helps interpret the results, ensuring the program continues to evolve with insight, not guesswork.
What’s Next?
Dr. Paul sees a future where Connections expands far beyond Asbury’s walls. With six campuses currently running the program and more on the way, she envisions a version that supports people before they ever move into senior living.
And the big dream? A fully immersive environment—where healthy meals, social engagement, medical care, and brain health are seamlessly integrated into daily life.
Resident Impact: The Power of Purpose
The most inspiring part of the episode is the stories. Couples relocating across the country just for the program. Residents climbing rock walls to impress their grandkids. One group of women even plays Twister on the climbing wall—under their own body weight.
Doctors are noticing measurable improvements. Residents are reporting greater happiness. Families are amazed at the transformation.
And perhaps most powerfully, participants feel empowered.
“You don’t just get a score,” Sue says. “You get a plan. A coach. And someone in your corner who believes in your potential.”
Want to learn more or build your own brain health program?
Visit asbury.org and explore the Kinnections initiative under the Wellness section
Listen to the full episode of the Smart Aging™ Podcast to hear more of Dr. Paul’s story and get inspired to think differently about senior living. Whether you’re a caregiver, executive, or passionate advocate—there’s something in this conversation for everyone.