Senior Living Feature

Brain chemistry may hold dementia clues

RESEARCHERS at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Thompson Institute believe lifestyle risk factors could leave chemical traces in the brain that signal cognitive decline long before dementia symptoms appear.

Dementia experts estimate around 45 per cent of cases could be prevented through healthier lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, balanced diet, quality sleep, and social engagement.

Now, scientists have found these factors may also be linked to measurable changes in brain chemistry. In a study published in Cerebral Cortex, researchers used Magnetic Resonance Imaging and MR-spectroscopy to examine the brains of 79 healthy older adults.

All participants had normal memory and cognitive function, but varied in their “modifiable dementia risk score” based on lifestyle habits.

Lead author Dr Jacob Levenstein said the team identified lower concentrations of the brain chemical GABA — which helps regulate neural activity — in people with higher risk scores. Lower GABA levels were found in brain regions controlling movement and

sensation.

In the prefrontal cortex, responsible for complex thinking and decisionmaking, researchers also observed lower levels of total N-acetylaspartate and total choline — chemicals vital for brain cell health and communication.

“These findings suggest brain deterioration can begin years before behavioural symptoms appear,” Dr Levenstein said.

“It opens the door to earlier detection and prevention strategies.”

Thompson Institute Healthy Brain Ageing Program lead Dr Sophie Andrews said the good news is these are modifiable factors.

“Improving sleep, physical activity, diet and mental wellbeing can shift your brain health trajectory,” she said.

The research, co-authored by Dr Ciara Treacy, adds weight to calls for lifestyle changes as a frontline defence against dementia.

The team hopes their work will pave the way for new screening tools, empowering people to act decades before damage occurs. They believe prevention could be the most powerful weapon in the fight against dementia’s growing global impact.

Kay McGrath visits Maleny Grove event

Contributed by Reside Communities

NEARLY 100 VIP guests gathered at Tiffany’s Maleny on Thursday 31 July for an exclusive event marking an exciting new chapter in retirement living in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

The event provided a first glimpse of Reside Communities’ plans for the modern revitalisation of Maleny Grove, an established and much-loved retirement community.

Guests enjoyed an engaging afternoon hosted by award-winning journalist and Reside Communities Ambassador, Kay McGrath, who also led a relaxed panel discussion with Reside CEO Glen Brown and COO Craig Syphers.

Queenslanders truly resonated with our guests.”

Kay, a long-time advocate for positive ageing, took time to chat with attendees, bringing warmth, professionalism, and her signature Queensland charm to the occasion.

“We were thrilled to see so much interest in the next stage of Maleny Grove,” Mr Brown said.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with

Reside acquired Maleny Grove in 2024 and is now embarking on a major expansion.

The community will grow from 28 to 94 architecturally designed two and threebedroom villas, with Stage 1 prices ranging from $825,000 to $1.4 million.

At the heart of the community will be The Lodge – a five-star clubhouse offering a suite of premium amenities

to support wellbeing, connection, and a vibrant lifestyle, just moments from each resident’s front door.

Guests at the event enjoyed a preview of these new amenities, early access to Stage 1 villa releases, and the opportunity to secure a home with a low, fully refundable deposit.

They also heard insights from the

experienced team behind Reside’s award-winning retirement communities. Set on 5.7 hectares of landscaped gardens, Maleny ers spectacular views, fresh mountain air, and the convenience of being just minutes from the town centre, shops, health services, cafés, and scenic

At the heart of a thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, artisan markets, and community events like Arts Alive Maleny offering opportunities for creativity

With interest already, Mr Brown encouraged potential residents to act quickly. The transformation is expected to be complete by 2027. For details or to register your interest, call 1300 44 55 80 or visit malenygrove.

Senior Living

Small home tweaks can improve joy and safety

Contributed by Mark & Sylvie’s Home Care

YOUR home is more than just a place to live; it’s a sanctuary built on a lifetime of memories. At

Mark & Sylvie’s, we believe that simple changes can make your home an even safer and more comfortable space, allowing you to enjoy it for years to come. These aren’t huge, costly renovations, but small, thoughtful tweaks that can make a big difference to your daily joy and safety.

The key to thriving at home is confidence. It’s the feeling of knowing you can move freely and without fear of an unexpected stumble. Often, the little things we overlook are the very things that can make a huge impact on our peace of mind. As Professor Kim Delbaere, President of the Australia and New Zealand Falls Prevention Society, notes, “Falls can cause people to lose their independence, and in many cases their lives. Fall injuries often result in significant concerns about falling again and social isolation, with ongoing impacts on

overall quality of life.” This highlights why a proactive approach is so vital.

The ground beneath your feet:

Start with the floors. That beautiful rug in the hallway

simple floor-level changes one of the most effective prevention strategies. Light up your life:

might be a trip hazard. While it adds warmth and style, a rug that isn’t firmly secured can be a genuine risk. Consider removing loose rugs or securing them with non-slip mats. Take a moment to clear pathways of clutter like stray cords, books, or magazines. Ensuring a clear path makes every step more certain.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that “Falls on same level from slipping, tripping and stumbling” are the leading cause of injury hospitalisations among older Australians, making

Good lighting is essential, not just for reading, but for navigating your home safely. Install brighter bulbs, especially in stairwells and hallways where visibility is crucial. Consider using nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms to make latenight trips easier and safer. A well-lit home is a welcoming home, and it can reduce the risk of a fall. A sanctuary in the bathroom:

The bathroom is a common place for falls, but it doesn’t have to be. A few small additions can have a massive impact. Non-slip mats in the shower and grab rails near the toilet and shower can provide crucial support. These small changes help you move through your home with confidence and ease, protecting your independence. The Australian Commission

on Safety and Quality in Health Care advises that the most effective approach to preventing falls is for them to work with their family and carers to identify risk factors. Taking these steps together is a powerful way to reduce risk and empower older adults to live safely.

At Mark & Sylvie’s, we’re here to help you identify these simple, effective changes so you can continue to thrive in the home you love. How we can help: Implementing these changes can seem daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team of compassionate occupational therapists and experienced carers can help. Our occupational therapists are experts at conducting comprehensive home safety assessments, providing personalised advice, and recommending the right modifications to suit your specific needs. Meanwhile, our carers can provide day-to-day support, helping you maintain a safe and organised living space so you can focus on what matters most—living your life to the fullest.

that truly sounds good

BASED in the heart of Maleny, Sounds Good Sunshine Coast is a proudly independent audiology clinic owned and operated by local expert Ben Small. With nearly 30 years’ experience in the hearing industry and a genuine passion for community care, Ben is committed to providing professional, personalised service to the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

The clinic offers a full suite of hearing services, including wax removal using micro suction – the safest and most effective method – for a flat rate of $80. Hearing tests are carried out using state-ofthe-art equipment, ranging from basic screenings to comprehensive audiological assessments, including impedance testing and speech discrimination.

No referral is needed to book a hearing test, and most assessments are offered free of charge.

As an accredited provider under the Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program, Ben supports eligible pensioners and veterans, while also welcoming private clients. Selected services may also be partially covered by private health insurance.

As an independent clinic, Sounds Good is not tied to any one brand, meaning Ben can supply, fit, program and service hearing aids from a wide range of leading manufacturers.

Already have hearing aids that need a service or adjustment? Pop in for a check-up.

The clinic is open Monday to Friday, with Saturday appointments available on request.

To book or learn more, call or text 0410 467 090, or email: soundsgoodsc@ outlook.com.

Better hearing is just around the corner – and it sounds good.

your outdoor areas safer with

AS we get older, navigating uneven ground or worn outdoor paths can create a serious risk for trips and falls.

Glasshouse Country Care’s

and make it easier to walk - whether using a walker, mobility aid, or just relying on steady footing. “It’s a small change that can erence,” said General Manager, Clare Mullins. “It’s not just about safety—it’s about giving dence to move around their home freely and independently.”

For more information, contact Glasshouse Country Care on 07 5494 6948.

Elder law: safeguarding seniors’ rights

ELDER law focuses on addressing the unique legal challenges faced by senior citizens. With Australia’s ageing population, it has become crucial for solicitors to help seniors navigate complex financial and health matters, ensuring their rights and interests are protected.

The Importance of an Enduring Power of Attorney

An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) allows a trusted individual to make decisions on behalf of a senior should they lose capacity. Seniors can dictate when these powers begin, set conditions on decision-making, and impose restrictions. Given the power of this document, seniors should carefully select their attorney and seek professional assistance to properly structure their EPOA, preventing misuse of

authority.

Financial Risks and Remedies

Gifting or lending money to family members,

transparency, affordability, and protection against undue financial pressures. Additionally, structured agreements and tailored

while generous, can have unintended consequences. Seniors risk breaching government gifting rules, creating affordability issues, or even straining family relationships. Proper legal structuring ensures

EPOA terms safeguard financial decisions.

When elder abuse occurs—often financial exploitation by family or trusted individuals—prompt legal action becomes critical. Remedies include

QCAT intervention orders to revoke or suspend powers, Guardianship or Administration appointments to manage finances, and restraining orders to protect from harassment or coercion.

Protecting Against Elder Abuse

Elder abuse may involve coercion, isolation, or exploitation of funds and assets. Legal professionals play a pivotal role in investigating allegations, ensuring seniors’ rights are preserved, and pursuing remedies to halt further harm.

Elder law solicitors enable seniors and their families to confidently navigate these complexities, paving the way for secure and informed futures, for more information please contact Spire Law on (07) 5440 4800 or spirelaw.com.au

Kay McGrath Award-Winning Journalist & Reside Communities Ambassador

“I would personally recommend anyone considering retirement living to take a close look at the lifestyle on offer at Reside’s Communities.”