In a study from University College London, scientists found that a free new digital tool Think Brain Health Check-in can help people keep their brains healthy and reduce their dementia risk.
The tool has been launched by Alzheimer’s Research UK.
The new tool prompts people to answer a series of evidence-based questions about the factors that research has shown could be influencing their brain health.
Previous research has found that up to 40% of dementia cases could be prevented if 12 risk factors could be eliminated entirely.
These include smoking, hearing impairment, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol drinking, diabetes, and infrequent social contact.
However, only a third of people realize that there are steps they can take to reduce their risk of dementia.
A recent survey showed a staggering 98% of people have room for improvement when it comes to looking after their brain health. The survey also revealed:
The Check-in tool is based on the latest evidence in dementia risk reduction and was developed under guidance from an expert group of researchers and members of the public.
It takes around 10 minutes to complete.
In the end, the tool highlights the areas where people are doing well, as well as gives them tips on areas where they can be doing more to look after their brains and ultimately, it is hoped, lower their chances of developing dementia.
The Check-in covers everything from physical activity to a healthy diet, as well as factors like hearing, sleep, cognitive challenge, and mental well-being.
While people of all ages are encouraged to take the Check-in, it’s primarily aimed at adults in their 40s and 50s.
This is because research tells us that this is a particularly important window for taking action to look after our brain health and reduce our risk of dementia.
The researchers hope the Think Brain Health Check-in will show people that there are things that can be done to improve their brain health and provide a practical and easy means to allow them to take action to reduce their risk of dementia.
If you care about brain health, please read studies about how the Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and your handgrip strength is linked to your brain health.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies that COVID-19 increases the risk of long-term brain problems, and these antioxidants could help reduce dementia risk.
The study was conducted by Professor Gill Livingston et al.
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