Healthy Ageing: Backing Brain Health
in Western Sydney
Dementia is an umbrella term for around 100 different disorders that affect the brain and cause a wide range of symptoms, including impacting people’s memory, decision-making, language, and behaviour. Dementia impacts each person differently, and can also cause changes in people’s physical health, wellbeing, social skills, and everyday functions. Despite common misconceptions, dementia is not a normal part of ageing and help is available for those affected.
Dementia in Australia Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of death in Australian women1. There are approximately 401,300 people living with dementia in Australia and this is expected to rise to over 800,000 by 20582. Currently, two-thirds of people living with dementia live in the community3. Within residential aged care facilities, over two-thirds of residents have moderate to severe dementia4.
Reducing Dementia Risks Some risk factors for dementia cannot be changed, such as age, genetics and family history of dementia. However, other dementia risk factors can be modified through healthy lifestyle choices. Focussing on having a healthy brain is important for people of all ages, but especially those who are middle-aged and older. To optimise your brain health, have regular check-ups with your GP, ensure that you are a healthy weight, be physically active, have a healthy diet, reduce alcohol consumption, and quit smoking. Participating in social activities and brain stimulation exercises are also important ways to improve your brain health. If you would like to improve your physical activity, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network proudly funds ‘Live Life, Get Active’ (LLGA) free classes across Western Sydney. For more information, visit wentwest.com.au/LLGA 1,2,3,4 A ustralian Institute of Health and Welfare (2023), Dementia in Australia, Summary, available from: https://www.aihw.gov.au/ reports/dementia/dementia-in-aus/contents/summary