Risk predictor for dementia

'This is the first time that a framework has been developed to help health professionals identify people at risk of dementia. New developments that encourage living a healthy life style are an important step towards combating dementia. We recommend that people take regular exercise; eat healthily; make sure they get their blood pressure checked and take part in social activities. It is vital that people are made more aware of the fact that what is good for your heart is also good for your mind.

However, there are many other factors that contribute to someone developing dementia. It is important that people shouldn't feel as though they are living under a dark cloud, scared that they may develop dementia later on in life.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of research