A personalised health programme supported by general practice nurses may help middle-aged adults improve lifestyle factors associated with dementia risk. Researchers evaluated a programme designed to help people make practical changes to support their long-term brain health.
What the Study Found
The study involved more than 403 adults aged 45 to 65 across 31 general practices in Australia. Participants in the intervention group received five consultations with nurses, an individual action plan and access to a health-tracking app.
After 12 months, 56% of participants in the programme showed improvements in their estimated dementia risk profiles, compared with 44% in the group receiving standard care and educational materials.
Lifestyle Changes That Made a Difference
The improvements were mainly linked to changes in protective lifestyle habits, including increased physical activity, better fish consumption and improvements in body mass index status.
The programme used a personalised action plan and a self-monitoring app to help participants set goals and track progress between consultations.
Does This Mean Dementia Can Be Prevented?
The findings are encouraging, but the study measured changes in estimated dementia risk profiles rather than actual dementia diagnoses or long-term cognitive decline. Further follow-up is needed to determine whether the improvements last.
The research highlights how personalised guidance through primary healthcare may help adults make sustainable lifestyle changes that support brain health as they age.
