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Awareness

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Dementia isn't just about memory

When many of us think dementia, we think it’s only about memory, that it’s a regular part of ageing, and that nothing can be done to reduce the risk of developing it. However, there are steps we can take to improve our brain health and reduce the risk.
A lot of things can affect dementia:

  • Hearing loss
  • High LDL cholesterol
  • Depression
  • Physical activity
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Hypertension
  • Obesity
  • Excessive alcohol use
  • Visual loss in older adults
  • Social Isolation

People who live healthy lifestyles and want to reduce risk of dementia should consider: caring for hearing loss or vision loss, treating depression, decreasing or stopping smoking, decreasing or stopping alcohol use, getting involved with their communities, caring for vascular conditions, and working out.

Resources

Behaviours that impact dementia, and what you can do

Hearing loss

Hearing loss between the ages of 40-65 may not be something that many of us think about. However, taking care of our hearing is important. You can check your hearing by completing this online test in less than three minutes.

Hertfordshire residents, who are aged 40-74 and don’t already have a diagnosis of certain long-term conditions can receive a free NHS Health Check on the Better Health Bus. These checks can detect early signs of conditions like high cholesterol, heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and dementia.

High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test. If you haven’t received an invitation from your GP surgery, contact them today. Or, contact the Hertfordshire Health Improvement Service. Email: healthimprovementservice@hertfordshire.gov.uk Phone: 0800 389 3998

Depression can be a low mood, lack of interest and sometimes hopelessness and despair. It can touch anyone at any time and affect how you live your life each day. Depression is as individual as you. Learn more about Dealing with Depression.

Exercise at any age can be helpful for brain health. Sometimes, you need to find the right activity, that fits with your abilities and physical condition. Learn more about how you can get active in your local community.

In the UK, 1 in 16 people are living with Diabetes. Living with Diabetes can come with many different challenges, both mental and physical, including diabetic retinopathy and sight loss. Managing diabetes is important in reducing the risk of dementia. If you have questions, or need help, contact your GP Surgery.

The risk of dementia can increase with smoking. If smoking is decreased, the risk of dementia later in life decreases, too.
It can be difficult to quit smoking. If you live, work or are registered with a GP in Hertfordshire, there are services to help you quit smoking. Find a service to help you quit smoking.

Free blood pressure checks – take a sec to check

Around one in four adults have high blood pressure, but only half of those are aware of it. High blood pressure doesn’t usually have any symptoms, which is why it’s important to get it checked. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to a heart attack or stroke and increase your risk of dementia. Free blood pressure checks are available at most pharmacies in Hertfordshire for anyone aged 40 who hasn’t had a check in the past 6 months. Find out more blood pressure checks.

Obesity can change the quality of life by increasing the risk of chronic illnesses including: type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Hertfordshire has eight community supermarkets. They offer a wide range of healthy food options and everyday essentials all at lower prices. Great value. Healthy choices. Right in your Community. Click here to learn more about Community Supermarkets.

Loss of awareness or alertness because of alcohol could lead to an increase in dementia risk. Excessive alcohol use could also contribute to other issues including: heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Fourteen units is the maximum recommended weekly intake. If you would like to know your intake, click here to calculate. Find advice or services, if you have any concerns.

Opticians – also known as optical or optometry practices – are usually the first point of contact for maintaining good eye health, or to help with eye or vision-related symptoms or concerns. Sight tests are as important as other routine health or dental checks. Most people should have a sight test every two years. However, some people may need to get their sight checked more often. Learn more about eye health and take your next step.

If you are blind or partially sighted, Sight Line may be able to assist you with information or equipment that could be helpful. Contact Sight Line at 01707 324680

People who socialise more, or meet other people regularly, may reduce their risk of dementia. No one should live life alone. Many of the Hertfordshire libraries offer free social groups. These drop-in groups run regularly throughout the county and take many forms—from knit and natter to board games, coffee morning, reading events and more. Find a library event

Don’t forget that you should always consult with your primary care or mental health professional about any activity that you pursue to fully understand how any suggested changes will affect you and your mental or physical health condition.

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