Be sociable

Eat healthily Get physical Use your head

Keeping in touch with family and friends and getting involved in the community may protect you against dementia. Try to do something sociable and enjoyable every day – join a club, volunteer for something that interests you, take up an evening class.

The evidence

A recent Swedish study found that having an extensive social network seems to protect against dementia. People with a poor or limited social network had a 60% increase in the risk of dementia.

Activities which combine mental, physical and social stimulation may be even better for reducing the risk of dementia such as day or evening classes, walking with a group or taking part in community groups.

What should you aim at?

Keep involved in the world around you. Try to make sure you do something sociable and enjoyable every day.

How to achieve it

• Keep in regular touch with friends and family
• Go out with friends, family or colleagues
• Get involved in your community
• Volunteer for something that interests you
• Join a club
• Join a walking group or a dance class - it will also increase your physical activity

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Eat healthily Be sociable Get physical Use your head