MP Abrahams backs drive to improve ‘brain health’ to help stave off dementia

Debbie Abrahams, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth and co-Chair of the Dementia All Party Parliamentary Group, is backing a new initiative which aims to reduce the risk of developing dementia by encouraging people to look after their ‘brain health’.

Mrs Abrahams, who was the first MP to become an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends Champion, and pioneered the Dementia Friendly Oldham campaign, said: “We know that up to 40% of dementia cases worldwide could be prevented or delayed, yet there is still limited understanding of the potential to reduce the risk of developing dementia. 

“So we need to find a way to transform the way people think about reducing the risk of developing dementia and prompt them to consider the changes that could improve their health.

“That’s why I’m backing Alzheimer’s Research UK’s new public awareness campaign called Think Brain Health, which gives really easy-to-follow advice about how to give your brain the best chance of keeping in tip-top condition throughout your life.

“Your brain is amazing.

"Made up of around 100 billion nerve cells, it controls your movement, your emotions and stores your precious memories, as well as making sure our heart beats automatically and we don’t have to think about breathing.

"It takes care of the small things too, like helping you find your keys in the morning.

“Sadly, the physical diseases that cause dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease, can take all of this away by damaging these cells and the connections between them.

“The good news is you can take steps to keep your brain healthy, just as you can improve other parts of your physical health.

"And the more physically fit your brain is, the harder it can be for these diseases to take hold.

“There are three basic ways to start staving off dementia. 

“One is to love your heart.

"Amazingly, what’s good for your heart is good for your brain.

"Two: stay sharp.

"Doing things that challenge your little grey cells, and taking time for your mental wellbeing, can help protect your brain as you age. 

“And three: keep connected.

"Research points to social activity being the third piece of the puzzle when it comes to keeping your brain healthy. 

"I know that this is difficult at the moment, but even phone or zoom calls can help."

You can find out more about how to look after your brain health here

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