Can dementia be prevented?

Some factors linked with dementia cannot be changed, including age, family history and certain inherited conditions. Other factors can be addressed: blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, smoking, alcohol, hearing, sleep, mood and physical activity. Managing these supports overall health; it does not guarantee that dementia will not develop.

Regular movement, a varied diet, social contact and mentally engaging activities can fit into ordinary life. Treat hearing loss if advised, use seat belts and helmets to reduce head injury, and take prescribed medicines as directed. Avoid starting supplements marketed for memory unless a clinician has checked that they are appropriate.

Book routine health checks and ask how to manage blood pressure, diabetes or cholesterol. Choose activities you can repeat, such as walking, swimming, dancing, learning a skill or meeting friends. If you smoke, seek help to stop; if alcohol affects sleep, mood or medicines, discuss reducing it. Keep a list of medicines and medical conditions for appointments.

Do not wait for prevention advice if memory problems are affecting daily tasks. A GP Consultation can look for treatable contributors and explain next steps.

Arrange a medical review for gradually worsening memory, difficulty finding words, getting lost in familiar places, repeated questions, or problems managing bills, medicines or cooking. Seek urgent help for sudden confusion, new weakness, facial drooping, severe headache, seizure or trouble speaking. These symptoms need prompt assessment rather than a self-directed dementia plan.

Ask which health checks you need, whether a medicine or sleep problem could affect memory, what activity is safe for you, and how to reduce smoking or alcohol. Ask when changes should be reviewed and whether a Mental Health Assessment would help if low mood or anxiety is present.