Free NHS health checks for people over the age of 40 are to include dementia advice. The guidance will be given as part of a drive to reduce the risks of contracting the condition in later life.
According to Public Health England (PHE), 28 per cent of people are unaware of the risks that can lead to the condition and simple lifestyle choices could improve a third of dementia cases.
The decision to include the advice as part of free NHS health checks for the over-40s follows a pilot scheme conducted by Public Health England in association with Alzheimer’s Research UK and the Alzheimer’s Society.
The guidance will be issued alongside advice for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, which the health check currently focuses on. Public Health England say that the advice given to lower the risk of dementia is similar to that regarding heart conditions, such as keeping mentally and physically active, refraining from smoking and keeping a social life going.
The health checks have been offered to 14 million people over the course of the past five years, but have been taken up by less than 50 per cent.
Highlighting the importance of attending a free NHS health check if offered one, the chief executive of Public Health England, Duncan Selbie, said it “could add years to your life”.
A recent survey, carried out by British Social Attitudes, found that dementia was one of the top three health worries for 52 per cent of the adults who took part.
Steve Brine, the Minister for Public Health, said of health check’s inclusion of dementia advice: “Early detection and prevention are vital to the health of our nation and our programmes in this area are among the most ambitious in the world.
“Our aim is to keep everyone as healthy as possible, for as long as possible.”
Enviva Care provides managed care in the home for people living with dementia. To find out more about our services, contact us today.
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