As you get older, it is important as well as keeping your body healthy, that you keep your brain healthy. There are some things you can do to reduce your risk of diseases that lead to dementia and Alzheimer’s. These include eating well, staying active, staying connected with other people, reducing harmful substances and getting good quality sleep. Brain Health Scotland have some brilliant information in their campaign.
Some of the specific factors that can reduce your risk of developing dementia include making sure you receive treatment for hearing loss and visual loss.
What is good for the heart is good for the brain. Making sure high blood pressure, cholesterol levels and diabetes are well controlled, not smoking and staying active all reduces your risk of developing dementia.
Looking after your mental health throughout your life is also important in keeping your brain healthy. This includes being involved in the community around you. Particularly at retirement, it is vital to continue to stimulate your brain by having hobbies, volunteering, social participation and looking after grandchildren.
There is evidence that our environment has an impact on our brain health. Air pollution increases our risk of dementia. This is one of the reasons our practice is committed to raising awareness of the climate emergency and there is information on the things that you can do to help the environment.
If you are concerned that you are having challenges with your memory, we can arrange a longer appointment to discuss this and assess your risk of developing dementia. Dr Sloss has spent some time at the memory clinic and works with Dr Sekhri to initiate assessments for dementia. If you think you would benefit from this, please make a routine telephone appointment with Dr Sloss in the first instance.