Published 05 Aug 2024
Dementia Action Week is running from 16-22 September 2024, and this is a great opportunity to raise awareness about the condition and shine a spotlight on services and supports available to those living with or caring for those with dementia.
Chances are that you know someone who has been diagnosed with dementia or is showing early signs and symptoms. Almost half a million Australians (1.5%) are affected by dementia and this number is expected to increase as our population ages. Dementia is the leading cause of death for Australian women, and second-leading cause of death for all Australians.
There is currently no cure, but with early detection supports can be put in place to assist patients, their families, and carers to plan for the future and minimise impacts on everyday life and overall health.
So, what is dementia, what are the risk factors and what can we do to monitor brain health and detect any changes?
What is dementia?
Dementia is a general term used to describe the symptoms of brain conditions that can impair and cause a decline in cognitive functioning. There are many forms of dementia, and the effects – both physical and mental – vary. The different types of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common and accounts for up to 70% of all cases, as well as frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia and Lewy body disease.
While dementia is usually associated with older age and is more prevalent in those aged over 65, it is not simply a symptom of getting older. Those in their 30s, 40s and 50s can develop younger onset dementia and in rare cases, dementia occurs in children.
Dementia can affect a person’s:
- memory
- mood
- personality and behaviour
- language and communication
- social skills
- problem-solving
- sensory perception
- spatial skills and orientation
- sleep
- mental health
These symptoms can have a significant effect on those living with dementia, their relationships and quality of life.
What are the risk factors for dementia?
There are many risk factors for a person developing dementia, but the majority of these are ‘modifiable risk factors’ which can be avoided with changes to behaviour and lifestyle.
Non-modifiable risk factors include:
- ageing
- genetics
- family history
Can anything be done to prevent dementia?
It is estimated that up to 40% of new dementia cases could be avoided by reducing or eliminating many of the modifiable risk factors. The good news is that there are many ‘protective factors’ for dementia and the following interventions are recommended at all ages to reduce exposure to the modifiable risk factors.
- having a healthy, balanced diet
- regular physical activity
- maintaining a healthy weight
- quitting smoking
- reducing alcohol intake
- mental exercises such as puzzles, crosswords and other games
- mental stimulation and an active social life
- staying on top of health conditions such as hypertension, vision loss, diabetes and depression
- avoiding loud noises and using hearing protection in noisy environments to reduce the risk of hearing loss
- ensuring adequate sleep
- minimising the risk of traumatic head injuries through use of protective gear and measures for high-impact sports
What are the early signs and symptoms of dementia?
These can be subtle and take time to become more obvious, but commonly include:
- memory loss and forgetfulness
- confusion
- personality and behavioural changes (these may be noticed first by others)
- impaired cognitive functioning that impacts familiar tasks
- loss of initiative
- problems with language and abstract thinking
Many of these symptoms are common to other conditions so it is important to discuss your concerns with your doctor and any changes in your cognitive function.
How can I monitor my brain health?
BrainTrack is a fun, free app, developed by Dementia Australia and funded by the Australian Government, that can be used monthly to self-monitor your cognition and detect any changes over time. Users complete a series of travel-themed games and tasks that target specific cognitive domains including memory, executive function, language, visuo-spatial and visual recognition. While BrainTrack does not replace the need for formal cognitive assessment, it can help you to track your brain health and discuss any changes or concerns with your GP.
Where can I find further information?
The Dementia Australia website provides a wealth of information about the dementia experience and is a fantastic resource and for those living with the condition, their families and carers.
The National Dementia helpline, 1800 100 500, runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year offering expert information, advice and support.
Browse Healthier Together articles that provide helpful tips and strategies to boost your protective factors for dementia:
- Nutrition for heart health
- 10 tips to get more movement
- Making friends at any age
- Why having a regular eye check is important
- Five ways to improve your chances to quit smoking
- Sleep tight – how to get a better night’s sleep
Maintaining a healthy weight
Obesity is a risk factor for many chronic conditions and there are strong links with the associated risk of developing dementia. GMHBA has partnered with Prima Health Solutions to deliver the Healthy Weight for Life Essentials program for eligible members. Find out more about this comprehensive 18-week weight management program and whether you are eligible to take part.
