New research from the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Thompson Institute has revealed a connection between lifestyle habits and early signs of aging in the brain.
The study, published in Age and Ageing, found that factors like diet, sleep, and physical activity may affect brain health long before any symptoms of dementia appear.
Dr. Thomas Pace, lead author of the study, explained that their research focused on whether lifestyle factors linked to dementia risk could also influence biological and functional signs of brain aging.
While the study wasn’t designed to prove cause and effect, it highlighted a clear relationship between higher dementia risk from modifiable lifestyle factors and changes in the brain.
Using advanced tools, the researchers assessed participants’ brain health and dementia risk.
They employed CogDrisk, an online tool developed by Neuroscience Research Australia and the University of New South Wales, to calculate a dementia risk score based on participants’ demographics and lifestyle choices.
The team then used brain scans (MRI) to measure white matter volume, electroencephalography (EEG) to study brain electrical activity, and cognitive tests to evaluate memory and thinking skills.
The findings were striking. Participants with higher dementia risk from lifestyle factors showed reduced white matter volume, a well-known marker of early brain aging.
They also displayed imbalances in brain electrical activity, a newer marker discovered in this study. These changes were observed even in otherwise healthy older adults with no signs of cognitive decline.
Dr. Pace compared the impact of lifestyle choices on the brain to the effects of sun exposure on the skin. Just as sun safety practices can reduce the risk of skin cancer, healthier lifestyle choices can protect brain health and lower dementia risk.
The study underscores the importance of focusing on modifiable risk factors—those aspects of lifestyle that can be changed to improve brain health. These include diet, sleep, exercise, and social connections.
Dr. Sophie Andrews, co-author and leader of the Healthy Brain Aging Program at the Thompson Institute, emphasized the benefits of making small, positive changes early in life.
“Simple lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce dementia risk and slow signs of brain aging,” Dr. Andrews said.
Practical steps include adopting a Mediterranean-style diet rich in olive oil, leafy greens, and fish; ensuring 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night; engaging in regular physical activity; and staying socially active.
The research takes on added urgency given that dementia is on track to become the leading cause of death in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The findings offer hope that proactive measures can make a meaningful difference in reducing future dementia risk.
As Dr. Andrews pointed out, the beauty of modifiable risk factors is that it’s never too late to start making healthier choices. The damage isn’t permanent—the brain can benefit from better habits at any stage of life.
This study serves as a reminder that our daily decisions shape the future of our brain health. As Dr. Andrews put it, “The dementia risk of your daily choices is painted onto the canvas of your brain. The good news? The paint is still wet, and you’re holding the brush.”
If you care about brain health, please read studies about how the Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies about antioxidants that could help reduce dementia risk, and Coconut oil could help improve cognitive function in Alzheimer’s.
The research findings can be found in Age and Ageing.
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