by Dana Rubin‑Winkelman, MSW, CAPSW, Social Worker
This month marks a special milestone—the 100th issue of Touch Points: A Spark of Light with Dana. It’s hard to believe that something that began during the uncertainty of COVID has become a monthly tradition.
Touch Points actually started as a dream—literally. When our in-person services closed to help keep everyone safe, I woke up one morning with the idea of creating a newsletter that could reach into people’s homes with encouragement, hope, resources, and a reminder that they were not alone. During those difficult months, many of you shared that Touch Points became a small lifeline—a way to feel connected when that connection mattered most.
As life gradually reopened, the purpose of the newsletter grew. My hope has always been that Touch Points would continue to offer practical resources for families living with memory loss while also celebrating the simple joys that help us live well—music, laughter, nature, lifelong learning, and the many experiences our Milwaukee community has to offer.
Thank you for allowing me to share these monthly reflections with you. Over the past 100 issues, Touch Points has found its way into homes, inboxes, and hearts. While every issue has been different, the mission has remained the same: to educate, encourage, connect, and remind one another that there is always hope. Whether it was one article, one song, one resource, or one “spark” that brightened your day or helped someone you love, I hope Touch Points has fulfilled its purpose. Thank you for being part of this journey.
“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.” -Edith Wharton
1. Spark Your Summer: Summer offers countless opportunities to create small moments of joy—and those moments matter. Research continues to show that spending time outdoors, staying socially connected, and trying new experiences all contribute to brain health and emotional well-being.
This month, take time to enjoy some of Milwaukee’s simple pleasures. Wander through a farmers’ market, listen to live music in the park, stroll along the lakefront, or simply sit outside with an ice cream cone. Sometimes the brightest sparks are found in the simplest moments.
Spark Challenge: Try something new this month or revisit a favorite summer tradition. Then share the experience with a friend or loved one.
“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
2. Spark Your Connections and Resources: One of the greatest gifts we can offer one another is support. Over the past 100 issues, my goal has been to share trusted resources that educate, encourage, and remind families they don’t have to navigate memory changes alone.
Whether you’re looking to keep your own brain healthy, support a loved one, or simply connect with others, I hope these programs continue to be a source of learning, friendship, and hope.
- ReCharge: Brain Health and Wellness Program: Our signature brain health and wellness program brings people together through evidence-based cognitive activities, movement, music, social engagement, and lifelong learning. With in-person classes, virtual options, and our social club, there’s a place for everyone to connect and thrive. For more information, contact Dana (that’s me!) at 414-721-9249 or email.
- SPARK!: Through our partnership with the Jewish Museum Milwaukee, participants explore art, history, storytelling, music, and culture in ways that spark memories, conversations, creativity, and meaningful connections. For more information and to register, contact Carol Ann at 414-277-8849 or email.
3. Spark the Mind: Just like a spark can ignite warmth and light, small moments of mental engagement can energize the brain, lift mood, and strengthen memory. Keeping the mind active doesn’t require anything complicated—often, it’s the playful, curious moments that have the most impact. Try a few of these spark-inspired activities:
- Think of as many words connected to “light” as you can in one minute (e.g., sun, candle, glow, star, lamp).
- Recall a joyful memory from each decade of your life.
- Challenge yourself to a quick word association game: start with the word “spark” and see how many related words you can connect in 60 seconds.
4. Spark Your Brain with Music: Music has a remarkable ability to reach parts of the brain that often remain strong, even when memory changes occur. A familiar melody can lift our mood, reduce stress, spark conversation, and awaken treasured memories. This month, celebrate the power of music by enjoying a few timeless favorites.
- “Singin’ in the Rain” by Gene Kelly: A joyful classic that celebrates optimism, resilience, and finding joy even when life brings challenges. Click here for the 4-minute music video.
- “Blue Skies” by Ella Fitzgerald: A timeless song filled with hope and positivity, reminding us to look toward brighter days ahead. Click here for the 3-minute audio.
- “You Are My Sunshine” by Jimmie Davis (popularized by many artists): A familiar favorite that has brought comfort and joy across generations. Its simple melody and warm message can encourage connection, spark memories, and create moments of happiness. Click here for the 2-minute audio.
5. Keep the Light Burning: As we celebrate this milestone, we also recognize that many in our community continue to carry concern for Israel and concern about the rise in antisemitism around the world. While we may not always have answers, we can continue to choose compassion over fear, understanding over division, and kindness over hate. By supporting one another, sharing our stories, and strengthening our community, we help keep the light of hope burning—for ourselves and for future generations.
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
As we celebrate this milestone with the 100th issue of Touch Points: A Spark of Light with Dana, I hope you’ll take a moment to notice the simple moments that brighten your own life—a meaningful conversation, a favorite song, a walk by the lake, a shared laugh, or an unexpected act of kindness. Often, these small moments are the ones that bring us joy and remind us of the connections that make life meaningful.
One hundred issues ago, Touch Points began as a small spark during a time of uncertainty. Thanks to all of you, that spark has continued to grow in ways I never imagined. Thank you for reading, sharing these newsletters with others, and being part of this wonderful community. It is truly a privilege to walk alongside you on this journey.
If you have questions about aging, memory changes, community resources, or caregiving, I’m here to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact me — I’d be happy to assist.
Until next month, may you continue to find—and share—sparks of light wherever you go.
Warmly,
Dana
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