Brain health

Brains might be small, but they do some pretty incredible work! They control your thoughts, feelings and movements, store memories, and shape your personality. It's easy to forget when it all happens behind the scenes, but our brain works hard every day, determining how well we think, learn and remember.

While some changes in memory and thinking can be a natural part of aging, there are simple every day habits that can help support cognitive health both now, and in future.

Brain health matters for everyone, but it can be especially important for people with a family history of dementia. As proud partners of Alzheimer's Society, we're passionate about helping people understand the lifestyle factors that can have impact. Simple choices such as staying active, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and maintaining social connections can all contribute to your overall cognitive health.

In this guide, you'll find practical brain health tips, expert advice and simple ways to help support healthy brain function as you age.

Brain health refers to how well your brain functions across different areas of your life. These might include:

• Memory and learning
• Movement and coordination
• Thinking and problem-solving
• Communication
• Emotional wellbeing
• Social interaction

A healthy brain can help us stay engaged, connected and independent throughout our lives. It's important to remember that brain health matters at every age – not just later in life.

Our brains don't replace neurons (nerve cells) that are damaged or destroyed, so it's important to take care of them. Head injuries, drug use, and health conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease can all lead to the damage or loss of neurons.

Just like your heart, muscles and bones, your brain benefits from regular care and attention – so show it some love! To do this, you can try:

• Engaging in regular physical activity (even just walking!)
• Eating a balanced diet
• Staying hydrated
• Making sure you get enough sleep each night
• Managing any long-term health conditions
• Staying socially connected
• Keeping your mind active (this might be through learning new skills, reading, doing puzzles or engaging in a hobby)

Research shows that factors such as physical health, the environment around us, social connection, and lifelong learning can have influence on the way our brains develop, adapt and respond to stressful situations.* While we can't control every factor that affects our cognitive health, being aware of our lifestyle choices is a simple way to help support brain function.

It's normal to notice some changes as we get older (such as occasionally forgetting names or misplacing items), however if you or someone close to you notices ongoing or worsening changes in memory, thinking, communication or day-to-day function, it's important to seek advice from a healthcare professional.

A pharmacist can offer advice on medicines, hydration and lifestyle factors that might affect your wellbeing.