Understanding dementia

Dementia affects approximately 500,000 Australians today, with this number projected to increase to over 1.1 million by 2058, according to Dementia Australia. It’s now the second leading cause of death among Australians and the leading cause of death for Australian women.

Key Signs to Watch For

• Memory Changes: Forgetting recent information, repeating questions, or increasingly relying on memory aids.
• Difficulty with Familiar Tasks: Trouble following recipes, managing finances, or navigating to familiar locations.
• Language Problems: Struggling to follow conversations or find the right words.
• Disorientation: Confusion about time, dates, or locations.
• Misplacing Items: Putting things in unusual places and inability to retrace steps.
• Mood and Personality Changes: Becoming confused, suspicious, or withdrawing from social activities.

Strategies to prevent or reduce the risk

• Heart Health: Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes is crucial. Nearly 80% of Australians living with dementia have at least one other chronic disease.
• Physical Activity: Aim for 30 minutes daily. Studies show that regular exercise may reduce the risk of dementia by up to 30%.
• Balanced Diet: Follow a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
• Mental Stimulation: Challenge your brain with reading, puzzles, and learning new skills.
• Social Connection: Stay engaged with family, friends, and community. Social isolation increases dementia risk by about 60%.
• Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours nightly. Poor sleep is linked to higher risk.
• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques to reduce chronic stress.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice concerning changes in yourself or someone else, consult a GP promptly. Early diagnosis is crucial – currently, it takes Australians an average of 3 years from first symptoms to diagnosis.

Remember, not all memory problems indicate dementia. With early intervention and healthy lifestyle choices, we can work toward better brain health as we age.