Risk factors for cardiovascular disease (like heart disease and stroke) are also risk factors for dementia. Leading a healthy lifestyle will help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease and your risk of dementia (particularly vascular dementia).
You understand your health better than anyone else. This places you in the best position to make the lifestyle changes that will benefit your health and reduce your risk of dementia. However, there are some things that you can find out at a free NHS Health Check available for those aged 40-74. These health checks are for people who don’t have existing conditions. Ask at your GP practice to find out more.
The Alzheimer's Society website has information on the health check which measures your height and weight, your blood pressure, and your cholesterol. These are all things that can affect your risk of developing dementia, so having them measured may help you understand where you can take action to reduce your risk of developing dementia.
If you have an existing health condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure (hypertension), you should also be offered an annual health check to help you manage your condition and stay as healthy as possible.
If you have concerns about your health, get in touch with your local pharmacist or GP – they will be able to provide you with further advice.