Everyday brain health: six areas to talk about

Brain health can sound like another project to get right. A more useful starting point is to look at your ordinary week and the questions you would like to discuss with your GP.

Dementia Australia includes physical activity, mental stimulation, social connection and attention to sleep in its brain-health guidance. Dementia Australia — How do we maintain a healthy brain?.

Six areas to consider

Learning. What would you enjoy trying? Choose a book, a cooking skill, a piece of music or a practical project because it interests you. You do not need to turn it into a test score.
Meals. Think about variety across the five food groups, as recommended in Australian dietary guidance. Start with meals you already know how to make. Eat for Health — The five food groups.
Movement. Ask what activities fit your abilities and interests. Make a note of any questions about comfort or existing medical advice before changing your routine.
Connection. Who would you like to spend time with? Consider a phone call, a shared activity or a regular catch-up that suits both of you.
Rest. If sleep is an ongoing concern, put it on your appointment list. Describe your usual evening and morning rather than guessing at a cause.
Medical review. Bring questions about medicines, hearing, mood or memory to your GP. Keep the discussion specific to changes you have noticed.

When memory changes worry you

Repeated difficulty remembering things or doing familiar tasks deserves a medical conversation. These changes can have different explanations; they do not automatically establish dementia. Dementia Australia — Early warning signs.

Write down examples and, if you wish, bring someone who knows you well. Dementia Australia's National Dementia Helpline, 1800 100 500, provides information and support. Dementia Australia — Early warning signs.

For a related everyday theme, read learning and brain health as we get older.