Reduce your risk of dementia

Stay active and eat a balanced diet

• Physical activity reduces dementia risk. The 24 hour movement guidelines outline how much physical activity is recommended for each age group.
• A healthy diet targets dementia risk factors of obesity, diabetes and hypertension. Eat for Health has advice about eating a balanced diet 

Get regular hearing and vision checks

• Hearing loss is linked to increased risk of dementia. Use noise protection and treat ear infections. 
• Using hearing aids lowers the dementia risk. The Hearing Services Program supports access to hearing devices. 
• Untreated vision loss is a risk factor. Many optometrists will bulk bill eye tests under Medicare.

Look after your heart health and manage diabetes

• High blood pressure, high ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol and diabetes can each increase dementia risk. 
• You might not be showing any symptoms, so regular health checks are important. 
• You may be eligible for a fully subsidised health assessment or heart health check – talk to your GP.
• Many pharmacies offer free blood pressure checks and you can check your type 2 diabetes risk at AUSDRISK.

Seek help for mental health 

• Untreated depression can increase the risk of dementia.
• Your GP can advise if you are eligible for Medicare subsidised mental health treatments.
• Medicare Mental Health Centres offer free and confidential mental health, social and emotional wellbeing support.

Quit smoking and limit alcohol

• Smoking is a known risk factor for dementia as well as many other chronic conditions. 
• Give up for good to reduce your risk of dementia. 
• Heavy alcohol consumption is also linked to dementia. Cut down to reduce your dementia risk. 

Be social and keep your brain active

• Social isolation or infrequent social contact is a risk factor for dementia.  Connect with others through hobbies, interests or volunteering. 
• Engage in mentally stimulating activities that challenge your brain in new ways throughout your life.