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Reduce your risk of developing dementia

During Dementia Action Week (15-21 May), the Alzheimer’s Society are encouraging individuals and their families, who are worried about dementia, to seek a timely diagnosis and avoid reaching a crisis point - alzheimers.org.uk 

Getting a timely dementia diagnosis means you can:

  • understand and recognise potential dementia symptoms
  • get practical advice from your healthcare professional and support organisations
  • feel empowered to take the next steps and start planning for the future

So, if you’re worried about yourself or someone close to you, the Royal College of GP’s accredited symptoms checklist can be used as a first step to diagnosis. You can fill in the checklist online or print it out and show it to your GP or Health Professional.

Reducing your risk factors

Although getting older is the biggest risk factor for dementia, the good news is that there are things you can do to help reduce your own risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

At the Wellness Improvement Service (WISE), our focus is on just that – empowering individuals to take control of their health and to proactively self-manage their well-being, so that they can enjoy a fulfilling life and reduce the risk of age-related chronic conditions.

Get moving to protect your mind

Regular exercise has been shown to improve brain function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. So, make sure to get moving and incorporate physical activity into your daily routine.

Physical Movement is one of the foundations for WISE - see how we can support you here:
Physical Movement - Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

Healthy Eating, Healthy Mind

By eating a healthy balanced diet, you are more likely to get all the nutrients you need for your brain to stay healthy. So, work towards a good quality diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and high-fibre foods which will lead to better mood, less stress, and better cognitive function. 

Healthy eating is one of the foundations for WISE - see how we can support you here:
Healthy Eating - Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

Mental Health Matters

Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can increase inflammation and accelerate brain aging, leading to cognitive decline and memory loss.

So, it's essential to prioritise your mental health by practicing stress-reducing activities like meditation, exercise, and socializing, and seeking support when needed.

It is important to remember in our busy lives that you are a whole person, and your mind is not separate and requires just as much looking after.
Mental Health – Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

Stay connected, Stay Sharp

Having close ties to your family and friends and participating in meaningful social activities, helps people maintain their thinking skills better in later life and slow down cognitive decline.

Social connection is one of the foundations for WISE, see how we can support you here:
Social Connection - Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

So, make sure to stay connected with friends and family, join a club or group, and get involved in your community.

Sleep Well to Age Well

Regular good quality sleep has been shown to improve brain function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. So, make sure to prioritise a good night's rest.

Our WISE coaches can give you tips on how to improve the quality of your sleep.
Sleep - Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

Minimising harmful substances

Making positive lifestyle choices is crucial for maintaining optimal brain health.

  • Smoking does a lot of harm to the circulation of blood around the body, particularly the blood vessels of the brain, therefore, putting you at a much higher risk of developing dementia later in life.
  • If you regularly drink alcohol, try to do so in moderation and within recommended limits. Drinking too much alcohol at one time exposes your brain to high levels of harmful chemicals.

Read here for further information about Dementia Action Week.

Author: Dr. Liza Thomas-Emrus

For further information please email: CTM.WISE@wales.nhs.uk or call us on 01685 351 451. Visit our website at: https://ctmuhb.nhs.wales/wise-ctm