One effort to reduced the risk of dementia is to stay active and engage in physical activities for at least 50 minutes in a week, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar said.
“Other efforts include practising healthy diets rich in grains, vegetables, fish, and legumes; challenging brain intelligence to help build and strengthen connections of neurons in the brains; enjoying social activities to stimulate brain capacity; maintaining a healthy heart and controlling high blood pressure; not smoking; and undergoing early health screenings,” he said.
The minister shared this in a message in conjunction with World Alzheimer’s/Dementia Month celebrated every September 21.
He said the Ministry of Health (MoH) continues to work hand in hand with non-governmental organisations including Demensia Brunei towards raising public awareness of dementia risk reduction and enhancing dementia care skills among caretakers.
The minister said the whole-of-society approach implemented through collaboration with various agencies in the country has also provided opportunities for the MoH to increase awareness and knowledge of dementia.
Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham said a majority – about 60 to 70 per cent – of Alzheimer’s cases lead to dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological condition affecting memory, thinking, and behaviour and ultimately can lead to severe cognitive decline and dependence.
While age is the most significant factor, Alzheimer’s disease is not a part of the normal ageing process. Genetic, lifestyle factors and overall health also contribute to the development of the disease.
According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, modifying all risk factors may prevent or delay about 40 per cent of dementia cases.
These statistics demonstrate that prevention and control at individual, community and environmental levels have significant potential to reduce the risk of dementia, the minister said.
Among factors associated with the development of dementia are natural factors such as increasing age as well as modifiable factors like lifestyle practices.
However, dementia risk factors may vary among individuals, Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham added.
“Therefore, in considering the high need to understand the risk factors of dementia, the World Alzheimer’s Day is commemorated annually on September 21.
He added; “The commemoration serves as an opportunity to raise awareness, address misconceptions, and promote understanding of the disease.
“The theme for this year’s celebration ‘Never Too Early, Never Too Late’ emphasises the crucial role of identifying dementia risk factors and implementing and practicing risk reduction measures to delay and prevent dementia in the community.
“These measures include continuous risk reduction strategies for individuals who have already developed dementia. World Alzheimer’s Day also serves as a platform for governments, organisations, and individuals to collaborate on research, prevention, and care-giving initiatives.
“Despite awareness on dementia and brain health growing, it is not yet enough to solidify dementia prevention practices.”
The minister added, “Towards improving accessibility to the healthcare system for all citizens and residents of Brunei, the MoH will consistently provide high-quality treatment and implement more cost-effective dementia prevention and control initiatives.”
