Noticing changes in your memory?

Many people become more aware of changes in their memory or thinking as they get older. 

This does not automatically mean dementia. Sometimes these concerns are first noticed by the person themselves before they show up on a cognitive test this is called subjective cognitive decline, or SCD. When changes do show up on assessment but do not meet the threshold for dementia, they may be described as mild cognitive impairment, or MCI.  

MCI means a person has changes in memory or thinking that are greater than expected for their age, but they can still manage most day-to-day tasks. 

Around one in 10 older adults is estimated to have SCD, and around one in five Australians aged 70 and over has MCI. Some people remain stable for many years, and some improve when other health concerns are identified and managed.  

If changes are ongoing, becoming more noticeable or causing concern, it is a good idea to speak with your GP, who can help explore possible causes and advise whether further assessment is needed.  

These earlier changes can also be a useful time to learn more about brain health and the factors that may influence future dementia risk. 

What does research tell us about brain health and dementia risk? 

Dementia develops through a complex mix of factors. Some, such as age and genes, cannot be changed. Other areas of health may be possible to support or improve. 

In 2024, a group of dementia experts called the Lancet Commission reviewed evidence from around the world. It estimated that, across the population, up to 45% of dementia cases may be delayed or prevented if a range of risk factors are addressed throughout life. 

Examples include: 

• Being physically active 

• Eating well 

• Staying socially connected 

• Keeping the mind active  

• Looking after emotional wellbeing. 

This does not mean that one person can reduce their own risk by 45%, or that dementia is always preventable. Many factors are outside a person’s control, and no set of changes can guarantee prevention. However, supporting several areas of health together may help protect brain health as we age. 

How can research help? 

Knowing what may support brain health does not always make change easy. Starting and sticking with new habits can be hard, especially alongside health problems, limited mobility, cost, caring responsibilities or lack of support. 

CogCoach-Health is an online UNSW research study for Australians aged 65 or older who have noticed changes in their memory or thinking, or who have been diagnosed with MCI. 

Eligible participants are assigned by chance to one of two groups. One group will get access to the 12-week CogCoach-Health intervention, including an e-learning course, professional consultations, computerised brain training and ongoing support. The topics covered include dementia risk factors, memory strategies, physical activity, healthy eating, managing stress, and staying socially and mentally active. 

The other group will receive six email bulletins covering the same topics over 12 weeks.  

The findings will help researchers understand the best way to support healthy brain ageing for others in the future.