Dr. John W. DenBoer’s journey with dementia is both deeply personal and profoundly spiritual. As a former geriatric neuropsychologist, he dedicated his career to understanding and combating this devastating condition—one that had already touched his life in the most personal way.
His grandmother, Jean Seeling, played a huge role in his upbringing. She was a guiding force in his life, offering love, wisdom, and support. When she was diagnosed with dementia and eventually succumbed to the disease, it left an indelible mark on him. Watching her decline firsthand wasn’t just heartbreaking—it was a wake-up call. He knew then that he wanted to do something meaningful in the fight against dementia, not just as a doctor, but as someone who had lived through its painful impact and felt a deeper, spiritual calling to make a difference.
A Career Rooted in Purpose
Dr. DenBoer pursued neuropsychology with a very specific focus on aging and dementia. He trained at the VA Boston Healthcare System, working closely with the Boston University School of Medicine and Harvard University. His postdoctoral work at the Barrow Neurological Institute further refined his expertise. Over the years, he became a sought-after expert, publishing research and speaking at national and international conferences. But his work wasn’t just about academic accolades—his real mission was finding a way to slow down, or even stop, the progression of dementia. This mission, he believes, is part of his greater spiritual purpose—to bring healing and hope to those affected by cognitive decline.
Founding SMART Brain Aging, Inc.
With this goal in mind, he founded SMART Brain Aging, Inc., an organization dedicated to helping those in the early stages of cognitive decline. As CEO and Chief Medical Officer, he spearheaded programs designed to preserve and enhance cognitive function. His work was rooted in the belief that dementia isn’t an inevitable part of aging—it’s a process that can be disrupted with the right interventions. He also saw his work as a divine calling, a way to serve and uplift others in their most vulnerable moments.
Writing This is Dementia: Disrupting the Decline
In 2019, Dr. DenBoer took his message beyond the clinic and into the hands of the public with his book, This is Dementia: Disrupting the Decline. He wanted to clear up common misconceptions, helping people understand that dementia isn’t a single disease but a form of accelerated brain aging. More importantly, he wanted to offer hope.
The book outlines a five-step framework—Awareness, Acceptance, Action, Allowance, and Attitude—to help individuals navigate the complexities of dementia. Whether someone is personally at risk, caring for a loved one, or just trying to understand what dementia really is, the book serves as a guide to taking proactive steps against cognitive decline. For Dr. DenBoer, this book was more than just an educational tool; it was a way to spread a message of faith, resilience, and the power of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
Bringing the Story to the Screen: This is Dementia Documentary
Not stopping at the written word, Dr. DenBoer brought his mission to the big screen. The This is Dementia documentary, released in 2019 on Netflix, gave viewers an intimate look into his work and personal journey.
The film wasn’t just about science and statistics—it was about real people. It followed families grappling with dementia, explored the emotional toll of the disease, and shed light on practical ways to fight back. Dr. DenBoer’s personal connection to the cause made the documentary deeply compelling. He wasn’t just a doctor talking about research—he was a grandson who had lived through the pain of watching someone he loved fade away. His faith guided him throughout this process, reinforcing his belief that he was meant to spread awareness and comfort to those affected by dementia.
A Mission to Educate, Advocate, and Inspire
In the years following the release of his book and documentary, Dr. DenBoer has continued his work as an advocate and educator. His message is clear: dementia is not an unavoidable fate. Through lifestyle changes, cognitive training, and early intervention, people can take control of their brain health. But beyond the science, he emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being—finding peace, purpose, and strength through faith and community support.
His efforts have made waves across the globe. He’s been invited to speak on international platforms, helping people understand that the time to act against dementia is now. His passion remains as strong as ever, fueled by the memory of his grandmother, the countless individuals he’s encountered who are fighting their own battles against cognitive decline, and his unwavering faith that his work is part of a greater divine plan.
Looking Ahead
Dr. DenBoer’s work is far from over. He continues to push boundaries in dementia research and intervention, always looking for new ways to disrupt the decline. His journey—from a young boy watching his grandmother struggle, to a leading voice in dementia prevention—serves as an inspiration to many.
Through his book, his documentary, and his continued advocacy, he’s changing the conversation around dementia. Instead of accepting it as an inevitable part of aging, he’s showing the world that there’s hope—and that we all have the power to fight back. More than that, he’s spreading a message of faith, compassion, and the belief that even in the face of devastating illness, there is light, purpose, and a path forward.
