People with a family history of dementia are being sought for a trial to look at how making long-term lifestyle changes might preserve our memory and thinking.
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BetterBrains is seeking more than 1500 Australians aged 40-70, who will be screened for the risk factors that might increase the likelihood of memory loss.
These include heart health or sedentary lifestyle, mental health, sleep, and level of social activity.
Some trial participants will be randomly selected to participate in lifestyle goal setting via a telehealth appointment, motivational interviewing and follow-up support.
Their doctor will be communicated with and they will be linked in with community providers for support with improving the lifestyle choices that could contribute to dementia.
Health information will be provided to all participants. After two years, BetterBrains will show which approach was more effective - education only or personalised education and more intensive interaction
The trial will be led by Associate Professor Yen Ying Lim from Monash University, who brings together researchers from research institutions across Australia.
It has been welcomed by Associate Professor Anna Barker, director of research and innovation at in-home care specialist Silver Chain Group. She said BetterBrains is timely, particularly given the world's ageing population and the prevalence of dementia among older people.
She said about one in three of Silver Chain's 105,000 aged care clients have a diagnosis of dementia. which provides services. The organisation operates in WA, SA, NSW, Victoria, and Queensland.
Dr Barker said improving one or a combination of the factors being studied can lead to better health but improving all of them together may help to keep our brains healthier as we age.
For more about the trial or to sign up, go to www.betterbrains.org.au
