Dementia Prevention: The Role of Health, Lifestyle, and Awareness

In this episode of This Could Save Your Life podcast, hosts Dr Catherine Bourke and Dr Anna Mullins explore the important topic of dementia prevention. With an aging population, dementia is becoming increasingly prevalent. 

The episode delves into what dementia actually is, addressing common misconceptions that it is solely a memory issue. They explain that dementia is a progressive condition characterised by a range of symptoms including memory changes, shifts in mood or behavior, and challenges in thinking.

Highlighting early signs of dementia, Dr Mullins categorises symptoms into memory changes, alterations in thinking, and shifts in personality, mood, or behavior. Notably, unusual placement of everyday items and confusion about time and place are also discussed. They stress the importance of early intervention and the benefits of speaking to a healthcare provider for advice, treatment, and supportive resources.

For those seeking proactive ways to prevent dementia, Dr Bourke introduces the CogDrisk tool from Neuroscience Research Australia, which provides evidence-based guidance on reducing risk factors. Prevention strategies cover a lifespan perspective, addressing early life education, lifestyle choices like managing cholesterol, diabetes, and blood pressure, as well as the significance of addressing hearing and vision issues. They also highlight depression, traumatic brain injuries, and social isolation as risk factors.

The episode also includes the importance of lifestyle habits like exercise, healthy eating, and maintaining social connections, alongside addressing any existing health conditions. Concluding with a reminder to take control of one's health and to utilise the available resources for reducing dementia risk.

Links & Resources:

• https://www.dementia.org.au/get-support/national-dementia-helpline
• https://www.dementia.org.au/
• https://cogdrisk.neura.edu.au/

This Could Save Your Life Podcast is under The Good GP podcast, a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/network

Mentioned in this episode:

What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think.

What if we could make HIV history? It might be closer than you think. PrEP is one simple tool that can help eliminate HIV transmission. GPs can prescribe PrEP with no special training. Find out more, and who might benefit, at ashm.org.au/prep.