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Advancing Brain Health: My Fulbright Project in Finland

15 November 2024 • Su-I Hou
At the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) in Kuopio, I've had the privilege of working on the Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER), exploring how lifestyle changes in nutrition, exercise, mental engagement, social activities, and cardiovascular health promote brain health and slow cognitive decline. Currently, I鈥檓 collaborating with the FINGER team to explore digital enhancements鈥攁 complex yet exciting transition.
Newspaper
Local Newspaper Matti ja Liisa Features Our Visit: Lapinlahti's Role in Global Memory Research

Through UEF鈥檚 Brain Research Unit (BRU), I鈥檝e shared my mixed-methods expertise to develop surveys and interview guides that enhance understanding of older adults' use of digital healthcare tools. This aligns with my research on aging in community, fostering independence and social connection. My time in Kuopio has been filled with productive meetings and in-depth studies on FINGER-based protocols, and I'm grateful to contribute to this vital work in brain health and dementia prevention.

Learn more on UCF Today News -

Walking in the Footsteps of the North Karelia Project

During our visit to Lapinlahti, my UEF colleagues and I led a community outreach training, experiencing the community鈥檚 dedication to care firsthand. Standing in the birthplace of the North Karelia Project鈥攁 groundbreaking social-behavioral intervention I first studied at UTSPH-Houston鈥攚as surreal and humbling. Collaborating on FINGER-based interventions that build on this legacy is both inspiring and deeply rewarding.

Learn more about the North Karelia Project's evolution from heart to brain health:

Embracing Kuopio鈥檚 Nordic Magic

Exploring Kuopio鈥檚 parks and harbor was a refreshing escape. Wandering through Nordic forests felt like stepping into another world, where time stands still. Breathing in fresh air, hearing raindrops, and soaking in the lake鈥檚 beauty made every moment unforgettable. Finland鈥檚 nature will always call me back! 馃尶馃挌

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"Lost in the Nordic Forest Adventure" on the left and "Fresh Air and Lake Serenity" on the right.

Heartfelt Connections at North Savo Memory Organization

Visiting the North Savo Memory Organization (Pohjois-Savon Muistiluots) was deeply moving. Witnessing caregivers and individuals with dementia share their struggles and find mutual support was powerful; it was a sacred space where words weren鈥檛 needed. Tears and silence held the weight of shared experiences, reminding everyone they are not alone on this journey.  My gratitude to KaisaP for arranging this visit鈥攁nd for the chance to savor Kuopio鈥檚 iconic kalakukko at the market!

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Kalakukko (Fish Pie) from Kuopio Market

Cherished Moments & New Beginnings

Finland鈥檚 warm hospitality, rich cultural exchange, and Nordic beauty made this journey unforgettable. From witnessing the aurora over Kuopio's August sky to participating in FINGER studies, this journey has been humbling. I cherish the connections made, the thoughtful Marimekko gift, and look forward to returning in spring 2026 (after skipping a couple of snowy winters 馃槃).  Thank you, Fulbright Finland, Fulbright Distinguished Chairs Program, UEF-BRU, TheSaastamoinenFamily, my wonderful UEF host Alina, and Fulbright program manager Karolliina!

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Aurora Over Kuopio: A Stunning View from My Balcony on a Starry August Night
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Su-I Hou
Fulbright-Saastamoinen 黑料正能量ion Distinguished Chair in Health Sciences 2024-26, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio

DrPH, CPH, MCHES, RN, FACHE, FGSA is the 2024-2026 Fulbright-Saastamoinen Distinguished Chair in Health Sciences, visiting the University of Eastern Finland in Kuopio this fall. She was also a Fulbright Specialist at Ben-Gurion University in Israel in December 2022 and an Erasmus+ Visiting Professor at Haapsalu College, Tallinn University, Estonia, in spring 2023. Dr. Hou is a Professor at the School of Global Health Management and Informatics at the University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA.

Email: [email protected] | phone: 407-823-3344