While ageing is the biggest risk factor, dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing. While no specific causes have been identified, risk factors include:^5,6,17

·      age (more common in those 65 or older)

·      hypertension

·      diabetes

·      being overweight/obese

·      smoking

·      drinking too much alcohol

·      physical inactivity

·      social isolatation

·      depression

·      low educational attainment

·      cognitive inactivity

·      air pollution.

Advice on lifelong healthy habits may therefore help reduce the risk of developing cognitive decline and dementia.⁵

Early on in dementia, there may be benefit in encouraging people to:⁵

·      get regular GP check-ups;

·      write down everyday tasks and appointments to jog the memory;

·      carry ID with the home address and emergency contacts when going out;

·      keep up hobbies and enjoyable activities;

·      try new ways to keep their mind active;

·      socialise with friends and family and engage in community life;

·      identify people to support decision-making and helping communicate choices;

·      create an advance plan to set out personal choices and preferences for care and support;

·      discuss anticipated health and care needs with family, friends and think about potential carers;

·      join a local support group.