Brain Health Toolkit
Looking after your brain is just as important as looking after your body, and this information is here to help.
Welcome to the Brain Health Toolkit
This online resource brings together trusted information about brain health and how we can all take steps to reduce our risk of dementia. It includes both national guidance and local support available in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
Created by a partnership of organisations across health, care and community sectors, this toolkit is designed for everyone, whether you're a professional supporting others or someone looking to improve your own brain health.
Do you know that nearly half of all cases of dementia worldwide could be prevented or delayed by reducing certain risk factors?
There are 9 key areas where we can take action — you'll find them all further down this page. They cover everything from staying physically and mentally active to keeping socially connected and looking after our heart health. What's good for your heart is good for your brain too.
This content is also available in easy read. Download the Brain Health easy read [PDF]
The facts
Many people don't realise that dementia isn't an inevitable part of getting older.
Research shows that 45% of cases are linked to factors we may be able to influence, even small steps can make a big difference.
It's never too early or too late to start. While we can't change some risk factors like age or genetics, there are others we may be able to influence. Many healthy habits that support brain health also help prevent other conditions like heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
Only 4 in 10 people in the UK (39%) know it's possible to reduce dementia risk. We want to change that, starting here in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
Risk factors
Learn about the risk factors many of us can control and those we can’t, in this 1 minute 40 second animation, narrated by Sean Bean.
Take action – 9 ways to look after your brain
Did you know that there are steps you can take to help lower your risk of dementia? Discover nine ways to support your brain health, including staying socially connected, keeping mentally active and looking after your physical health. Start with just one or two changes and build healthier habits for the future.
Stay active
Be active in ways that works for you
Stay connected
Arrange time to meet with your family, friends and community
Manage long-term health conditions
Know how to manage long-term health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
Eat for your brain
Eat well and keep a healthy weight
Look after your hearing and vision
Have regular eye checks and hearing tests
Stop smoking and cut down alcohol
Protect your brain by stopping smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and think about the air you breathe
Keep mentally active
Keep learning and look after your mental health and wellbeing
Protect your head
Prevent head injuries at home and on the move
Sleep well
Prioritise quality sleep and a regular routine
Think Brain Health Check-in
Explore your brain-healthy habits and discover how to look after your incredible brain with the Think Brain Health Check-in, thanks to Alzheimer's Research UK. This isn't an assessment or diagnostic test. It's a simple way to explore your brain-healthy habits and discover easy tips to give your brain some love. It takes around 10 minutes, and at the end you'll receive personalised recommendations.
Go to, Think Health Brain Check in( www.alzheimersresearchuk.org) (opens in new tab)
Children and young people
When it comes to good brain health habits, you’re never too young to start! Alzheimer’s Research UK have activities and games to help young people understand how to look after their brain.
► For young children - Alzheimer's Research UK (opens in new tab)
► For juniors and teens - Alzheimer's Research UK (opens in new tab)
Worried about someone's memory or already have a dementia diagnosis?
Living Well with Dementia
If you have dementia, there are lots of things you can do to help yourself stay well and continue enjoying life. Small changes and regular activities can improve your wellbeing, help you remain independent for longer, and support your physical and mental health.
Staying active, keeping in touch with other people, and taking part in activities you enjoy can boost your confidence, lift your mood, and help you feel connected to your community.
Remember, you do not have to manage on your own. There is a range of support, advice, groups, and activities available to help you and those who care for you.
Dementia can sometimes affect your mood, confidence, or behaviour. This is completely normal. Don't let it stop you from getting involved. Many local groups and organisations provide a friendly, welcoming environment where you can meet others, try new activities, and find the support you need to live well with dementia.
For more information
Post diagnostic support:
► Next steps after a dementia diagnosis – Alzheimer’s Research UK (opens in new tab)
► Local Dementia Directories & Support - Your Notts Directory
► Dementia Wellbeing Service Nottingham & Nottinghamshire (opens in new tab)
Resources
What are we talking about?
Brain Health
'A term referring to keeping our brains in good working order at all stages of life. Brain health is affected by a number of factors including age, genes and a range of lifestyle choices. While some of these factors are within our control, others are not. By considering ways to look after our hearts, stay mentally sharp, and keep connected to people, we can all take steps to keep our brains healthy and reduce our risk of developing dementia later in life' (Alzheimer's Research UK 2024).
Go to, Brain-Health-consensus-statement [PDF] (opens in new tab)
Dementia
An umbrella term that describes the symptoms that occur when the brain is affected by certain diseases or conditions. Symptoms may include memory loss, difficulties with changes in behaviour, thinking, problem-solving or language. It is characterised by a decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily life activities.
Dementia Risk Reduction
Dementia risk reduction refers to actions and lifestyle choices aimed at lowering the likelihood of developing dementia. The goal is to protect brain health and reduce risk factors that contribute to cognitive decline over time.