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downhill from there," says Pascual-Leone, director of the Berenson-Allen Center for Noninvasive Brain Stimulation. But recent research shows the brain is continuously changing, making new cells and synapses. Known as plasticity, this con- cept has led to new ways to treat neurological disorders. The Brain Fit program—which originally treated patients with concussions, those who had gone through severe emo- tional stress, and those diagnosed with diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's—also aims to sharpen aging minds, those of patients suffering from the effects of che- motherapy and radiation, and healthy people who want to prevent problems down the road. Each Brain Fit Club member starts with a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation. Clinicians use imaging tech- nologies to measure the function and plasticity of the brain. Then a team develops an individualized plan based on the brain health profile, identifying targeted interventions to address each patient's weak points. Progress is tracked, and the program is adjusted as brain function improves. Group instruction in tai chi, meditation, and yoga are offered to address proper sleep and help improve cogni- tive reserve, which shows a 30 to 40 percent improvement. Computer-based cognitive training games and tasks are geared to challenge the brain at a level appropriate to each individual. "Someone who has a good visual memory might be set up with tasks that are more mathematical—a challenge." The ultimate goal of the Brain Fit Club, says Pascual-Leone, "is to make sure that each person is able to have as meaningful a life across their entire lifespan as they can." Brain Fit Club, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Kirstein 2, 617-667-2507; brainfitclub.org TO THE POINT: YOuNgEr SkIN Three years ago, in response to client requests for advanced skin care, Bella Santé began offering medical-grade treatments, under the direction of Dr. William Numa. The most recent treatment to be introduced is micro-needling, which helps diminish scars, fight wrinkles, and reduce the signs of aging. Tiffany Amorosino, cofounder of the spa, says while the treatment sounds a bit intimidating, it offers little or no discom- fort: A numbing agent is applied, and then a trained technician goes over the skin with a pen-like device (appropriately named a SkinPen). Twelve 32-gauge needles poke hundreds of minute pinpricks into the dermis of the skin, stimulating collagen pro- duction and building new, stronger tissue. "It works on all skin types, and is particularly effective for people in their 30s, 40s, even 50s," says Amorosino. The treat- ment takes about an hour, and there is little or no downtime: For a day the skin may be puffy and red, "like you've just had a good workout," says Amorosino, but in two days the skin is com- pletely cleared. Amorosino recommends three treatments, spaced four to six weeks apart. With a price tag of $300 per ses- sion for the face, that is significantly less than laser treatments. As with all treatments offered at the salon, Amorosino vet- ted micro-needling herself before offering it to clients. The results? "Radiant!" says the self-declared skincare junkie. Bella Santé Day and Med Spa, locations in Boston, Lexington, and Wellesley, 617-424-9930; bellasante.com BC Bella Santé offers medical-grade treatments under the direction of Dr. William Numa. BR AIN TIPS Dr. Alvaro Pascual-Leone, director of the Berenson-Allen Center for Noninvasive Brain Stimulation at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, says that anyone at any age can beneft by challenging their brain and supporting it with a healthy body. Here are his suggestions: Cognitive training: To work optimally, your brain needs to be challenged by doing something new, such as learning a second language or taking up a new activity like chess—anything that's beyond your comfort level. Stress control: Too much stress can reduce memory and overtax the body and brain. Meditation, deep breathing, visualization, and biofeedback, all reduce unhealthy stress. Exercise: Scientifc research shows that exercise — including aerobic and strength training—is essential to brain health. Older people particularly beneft. Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and olive oil, and low in processed foods, is best. Social interaction: Research shows that it's important to interact with family and friends. Sleep: People who don't sleep enough dip into their cognitive reserves. Older people with sleep problems should address them to avoid cognitive decline. photography by Sarah WincheSter 110 bostoncommon-magazine.com HEALTH Advances in Anti-Aging