Dementia – reducing the risk

Did you know?

• Getting older does not mean that you will get dementia.
• You will not necessarily get dementia because a family member has.
• You can take action to lower your risk of developing dementia.
• It is never too early or too late to take action.

Although there are some risk factors that cannot be changed, the good news is that research shows that it is possible to reduce your likelihood of developing dementia. This involves making some changes to help keep your body healthy and prevent damage to your brain. This can be useful for people of any age.

Some of the key lifestyle changes that can help to reduce your risk of developing dementia are to:

• Look after your hearing
• Stop smoking
• Look after your mental health
• Stay connected with others and engage your brain
• Protect your head
• Keep an eye on your blood pressure
• Move more and move often
• Reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes
• Limit your alcohol intake
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Look after your eyes

For more information and to find out about local services that can support you in making these lifestyle changes, read the full guide here.

Hard copies of the guide are available at Hubs and Libraries, GP surgeries, hospital information centres, and other community locations across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.