KEEP YOUR BRAIN FIGHTING FIT

When Dr Helena Popovic's dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, she took up the fight for prevention

- Amber Bramble

Thirteen years ago, after my mother passed away with lung cancer, I found some Rivastigmine (a drug to reduce symptoms of Alzheimer's) in my parents' fridge.

I didn't know anyone with Alzheimer's, so I asked my father what it was doing there. He replied that Mum had told him he needed medication to improve his memory. He didn't think they did much good but his philosophy was "Happy wife, peaceful life" so he took it.

That was how I learned that Dad had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. I had mistaken his memory lapses, confusion and withdrawal for grief.

We now know we can halve our risk of dementia and, in many cases, stop MCI - mild cognitive impairment - in its tracks. We can slow and reverse decline after a diagnosis.

Best of all, the factors that improve brain health are compatible with a more meaningful, joyful, socially connected life.

REDUCING THE RISK

There isn't only one factor responsible for optimal brain health. Regular exercise is a critical piece of the puzzle. So are social stimulation, good nutrition and adequate levels of vitamin B12.

Other puzzle pieces include learning something new, such as a foreign language or playing a musical instrument.