Risk reduction

Evidence is growing that attention to cardiovascular risk factors may improve cognitive function and / or reduce dementia risk. A 2012 review has suggested that there is sufficient evidence now for clinicians to recommend the following strategies for early intervention and prevention of dementia:

• Increased physical activity (e.g. 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity walking or equivalent)
• Social engagement (increased number of social activities per week)
• Cognitive training and rehabilitation ^[1]

Despite the growing evidence on dementia risk reduction, half of Australian adults are unaware of the potential of dementia risk reduction activities. Some Australians associate mental activity with reduced risk, but very few are aware of the important link between vascular risk factors and dementia. There is a need to increase individual and community awareness and recognition of risk reduction strategies to reduce the likelihood of developing dementia and delaying the onset of dementia. While there is yet no cure for dementia, addressing these modifiable risk factors with patients may help to reduce the incidence of dementia. ^[2]

Alzheimer's Australia Risk Reduction Website - Your Brain Matters