Promoting brain health and healthy ageing recap

Dementia is one of Australia’s most pressing health challenges. With nearly half a million Australians currently living with dementia, raising awareness and providing practical support is more important than ever. 

In our session, hosted by Dementia Friendly Woollahra in partnership with Woollahra Council, a panel of experts shared actionable advice on maintaining brain health. Here’s what you need to know. 

Hearing health 

Speaker: Greta Harvey, Clinical Audiologist, Hearing Innovations 

Why hearing matters 

Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults, with one-third of people over 65 experiencing some degree of impairment. Beyond making conversations difficult, untreated hearing loss is linked to social isolation, depression, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of dementia. 

A UK biobank study of over 90,000 adults found that hearing loss significantly increases dementia risk. However, the trial showed that hearing aids can slow cognitive decline over three years. People who wear hearing aids have a reduced risk of dementia compared to those who don’t. 

Practical tips 

• Get a hearing test, even if you think your hearing is fine. Early intervention is key. 
• Wear hearing aids consistently to retrain your brain and reduce cognitive load. 
• Practice good communication 

“Hearing aids don’t just help you hear, they help your brain stay engaged and reduce dementia risk.”

Supporting independence at Home 

Speaker: Jane Corlett, Occupational Therapist Head of Department, War Memorial Hospital 

Planning ahead 

For people living with dementia or cognitive changes, habits and routines are crucial. Setting up your home to manage on your “worst days” ensures you can cope even when energy or memory is low. 

Visual perception and home safety 

• Contrast is key: Use contrasting colours for handrails, toilet seats, and kitchenware to help the brain interpret spaces. 
• Declutter: Remove unnecessary items and keep pathways clear to reduce confusion and falls. 
• Lighting: Ensure rooms are well-lit to help with visual perception. 

Physical changes and falls prevention 

• Strength and balance exercises can prevent falls and maintain independence. 
• Confidence matters: Fear of falling can actually increase fall risk; stay active and seek help if needed. 
• Use gadgets (calendar clocks, personal alarms and medication reminders) can support daily living 

“Small changes at home can make a big difference in maintaining independence and quality of life.”

Fuelling the brain for healthy ageing 

Speakers: Lil Potter & Sophia Zhang, Nutritionists 

Why nutrition matters 

As we age, our metabolism slows, muscle mass decreases and nutrient needs change. For people living with dementia, malnutrition is a major risk, leading to weight loss, muscle loss, and worsened cognitive function. 

The five food groups 

• Fruits & vegetables: Aim for 5 serves of veggies and 2 serves of fruit daily for vitamins, minerals and fibre. 
• Grains: Choose whole grains for energy and fibre. 
• Protein: Essential for muscle maintenance, aim for 2–3 serves daily (meat, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes). 
• Dairy: Important for calcium and bone health. 3–4 serves for women, 2.5–3.5 for men. 
• Healthy fats: Olive oil, nuts, and avocado support brain health. 

Practical tips for dementia 

• Familiar foods: Offer favourite or familiar foods to stimulate appetite. 
• Small, frequent meals: Break meals into smaller portions to ensure consistent nutrient intake. 
• Food fortification: Add butter, cream, cheese or milk powder to meals to boost energy and protein. 
• Hydration: Aim for 6 glasses of fluid daily, dehydration worsens confusion and fatigue. 

“Good nutrition is not just about eating. It’s about eating the right foods in the right way to support brain and body health.”