Healthy habits can reduce your dementia risk

Looking after your heart can protect your brain too

We often hear about the importance of looking after our hearts. However, did you know that heart health is also closely linked to brain health?

There is growing evidence that keeping your heart healthy can reduce your risk of developing dementia.

Dementia is a condition that affects memory and thinking skills. In Surrey, more than 17,000 people are living with dementia. Numbers are projected to rise by more than a quarter over the decade to 2030. Many cases of dementia are linked to things we can't change, such as our age and genes.

However, research is becoming stronger that dementia isn't always inevitable. According to research, around 40% of dementia cases are down to factors we can influence and there are steps we can take to lessen our chances of developing the condition in later life.

Just as you can improve aspects of your physical health, you can also take steps to keep your brain healthy, such as:

• staying active
• eating a balanced diet
• stopping smoking
• keeping an eye on your health numbers such as blood pressure and cholesterol

Visit the reduce your dementia risk pages on the Healthy Surrey website for tips and information about local services which can help you make positive changes in 2025 and beyond. This includes how to get free health and blood pressure checks. You will also find information about support to keep to a healthy weight and within alcohol limits, as well as ideas to help you get active and find social connections.

It's never too early or too late to start looking after your heart. The choices you make now may lead to a healthier, more active future - both for your body and your mind.