In Islington, an estimated 1,500 people over the age of 65 have dementia. Dementia is not an inevitable part of aging. You can act every day to reduce your chances of getting dementia as only a few cases are hereditary.

Here are some top tips:

1. Keep active – 10 minutes of exercise a day can make a difference
   Try making small changes where you can, get off the bus one stop early and walk, walk your dog for longer or take the stairs not the lift. Even gardening and housework count! 
   Check out Sports activity for all | Islington Council for ways to keep active in Islington! 
2. Eat well and maintain a healthy weight
   Unhealthy eating and being overweight can affect the blood supply to your brain. This can affect your thinking. Aim to eat less sugar, salt, and processed foods, and eat more oily fish, fruits, and vegetables to support brain health. More Life UK offer a 12-week programme that can help with weight loss and improving health and wellbeing.
    
3. Limit alcohol
   There are no safe levels for drinking alcohol. Drinking alcohol can harm your brain. Drinking at high levels over time can also cause alcohol-related brain damage. Better Lives service provide free, confidential support to anyone in Islington who would like to make changes to their alcohol or drug use.
4. Quit smoking – it’s never too late
   Smoking nearly doubles your risk of dementia. Smoking is very harmful to the heart, lungs, and circulation of your blood. This can affect the blood vessels in the brain. By giving up smoking you can reduce the risk of dementia.
   Breathe service can support you to stop smoking through face-to-face, phone or online support.
5. Connect with people around you
   Socialise, learn new skills, play games, or join clubs. Keeping your mind engaged helps protect your brain. Sometimes hearing loss can make it harder to stay connected. If you’re affected by this, speak to your GP.
   Check out activities available in the borough through Age UK Islington and Islington Carers Hub. 

Know the signs and symptoms of dementia

Dementia can develop gradually, and the early signs are often subtle and easy to miss. Being aware of the symptoms can help you seek support sooner. 

The Alzheimer’s Society offers helpful guidance on how to recognise the common early signs of dementia.  

Worried about yourself or someone close to you?

If you’re worried about memory loss, either your own or someone close to you, it’s important to seek advice. Speaking to a GP is the first step. 

Getting a diagnosis early can: 

• Help you understand what’s happening 

• Provide access to treatment, support, and planning 

• Improve quality of life for longer