Can I reduce the risk of developing dementia?

Yes. Research shows that the risk can be significantly influenced by lifestyle: regular physical activity a healthy diet sufficient sleep mental activity control of blood pressure and diabetes

What effect does physical activity have on brain health?

Physical activity: improves blood circulation in the brain supports the production of neurotrophic factors (e.g. BDNF) reduces inflammation supports memory and learning

How does diet affect the brain?

A healthy diet can protect the brain by: reducing oxidative stress and inflammation supporting the metabolism of neurons providing antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids An unhealthy diet (excess sugar and saturated fats) may increase the risk.

Can the brain be “trained”?

Yes. Learning languages, reading, logic games, etc. help to: maintain memory and attention support the formation of new connections between neurons increase cognitive reserve

Does it make sense to start prevention even after 60?

Yes. Research shows that even at an older age: exercise improves brain function diet influences inflammatory processes cognitive training has an effect

When should I seek a doctor?

If the following appear: repeated memory problems disorientation behavioural changes problems with everyday activities

Expert Questions

We are adressing common questions related to BrainHealth, healthy ageing, and the topics explored in the project. The aim is to provide clear and accessible answers to questions that may be relevant to participants, interested members of the public, and anyone who would like to learn more.

Ask the Experts

At present, there is no medicine that can completely cure these diseases. However, there are medicines and measures that can:

slow progression
alleviate symptoms
improve quality of life

Yes. Research shows that the risk can be significantly influenced by lifestyle:

regular physical activity
a healthy diet
sufficient sleep
mental activity
control of blood pressure and diabetes

Physical activity:

improves blood circulation in the brain
supports the production of neurotrophic factors (e.g. BDNF)
reduces inflammation
supports memory and learning

A healthy diet can protect the brain by:

reducing oxidative stress and inflammation
supporting the metabolism of neurons
providing antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids

An unhealthy diet (excess sugar and saturated fats) may increase the risk.

Prevention is most effective already in middle age, but starting at an older age also has a positive effect, and even small lifestyle changes can help.

No. Mild slowing of thinking may be common with age, but dementia is not a natural part of ageing.

Yes. Learning languages, reading, logic games, etc. help to:

maintain memory and attention
support the formation of new connections between neurons
increase cognitive reserve

Yes. Research shows that even at an older age:

exercise improves brain function
diet influences inflammatory processes
cognitive training has an effect

If the following appear:

repeated memory problems
disorientation
behavioural changes
problems with everyday activities