Dementia
As you get older, especially if you’re over 65, you might find that your memory isn’t what it used to be.
If you’re getting increasingly forgetful and it’s affecting your everyday life, it might be a good idea to have a chat with your GP about the early signs of dementia.
It’s estimated that there are about 850,000 people in the UK with dementia, and that many people live with the condition without knowing they have it.
But dementia isn’t just about memory loss. It can also affect the way you speak, think, feel and behave.
Lowering the risk of dementia
There are a number of ways you can help lower the risk of dementia.
- Stop smoking
- Be more active
- Reduce your alcohol consumption
- Improve your diet
- Lose weight if necessary and maintain a healthy weight
- Stay mentally active – for example, do puzzles or learn a second language
- Remain socially active to improve your mood, relieve stress, reduce risk of depression and combat loneliness