- For confidential advice, call Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456
- Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checker can help spot the signs of dementia
After a diagnosis, it’s important to address the known risk factors, as these can make the disease worse, says Adam Greenstein, a professor of medicine at the University of Manchester.
A decline in brain blood flow is a major cause of dementia (including Alzheimer’s, which is linked to high blood pressure), so addressing anything that might be responsible for this is vital.
‘Keeping to the Government’s recommended limit of 14 alcohol units per week and stopping smoking are important for people with dementia, as both can worsen vascular damage and accelerate cognitive decline,’ says neurologist Dr Lucio D’Anna.
Physical and mental wellbeing are just as important, he adds.
‘Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps with high blood pressure, known to accelerate cognitive decline.
‘People should aim for some form of physical activity every day, such as a 20-minute walk, adapted to their abilities and safety.’
Mental stimulation is important. ‘Central to this is that it should challenge the patient, which often means trying new things,’ says Tim Beanland, head of knowledge and learning at Alzheimer’s Society.
A decline in brain blood flow is a major cause of dementia (including Alzheimer’s, which is linked to high blood pressure), so addressing anything that might be responsible for this is vital (file photo)
Everyone experiences dementia differently. Use this checklist to help you make a note of your symptoms before you talk to your GP.
‘This doesn’t have to be crosswords or Sudoku – you can try gardening, learning a language or dance routine, joining a book club or playing the piano,’ he adds.
‘Whatever mental challenge is chosen, ensure it’s new; rather like the gym: keep lifting the same weights and benefits will fade.’
Diet can play a key role too and should contain plenty of fibre – the NHS recommends 30g a day (foods rich in fibre include legumes, fruit and wholegrains).
Drinking enough fluid can also help prevent constipation; people over 65 should aim for 30ml per kg of body weight (for someone weighing 50kg, that’s around a litre and a half), explains dietitian Rachael Masters, founder of Focus on Undernutrition.
Many develop a preference for sweeter foods – include with higher fat foods to provide extra calories. Finger foods can also be helpful if someone is active and will not sit at a dinner table.
