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Quote of the Day
You asked. We listened. Here’s what’s next…
Interesting Stories This Week
The Dementia Professor’s 10 Tips to Reduce Dementia Risk
Responding to YOU!
Physical strength is measured by what we can carry, spiritual by what we can bear.
You asked. We listened. Here’s what’s next…
Do you enjoy what we share with you? We love being able to bring you free content every day and our weekly newsletter. But many of you have asked for deeper support and more resources to help navigate caregiving.
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Interesting Stories This Week:
Anyone who uses headphones told to check one setting or risk dementia
'Frasier' star David Hyde Pierce honors Reagan's 'turning point' in Alzheimer's awareness
Dementia red flags to spot that are not 'normal ageing' as 85% of Brits delay seeking help
The Silent Symptom Most People Don't Realize Could Be a Dementia Sign, According to Neurologists
'I wish dad was knighted before he had dementia'
The Dementia Professor’s 10 Tips to Reduce Dementia Risk
Gill Livingston has been Professor of Psychiatry of Older People at University College London (UCL) for almost two decades. In 2017, she led the influential Lancet Standing Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention and Care—a landmark piece of work that shaped how we understand dementia risk today.
One of her most important findings? Around 45% of dementia cases are preventable or their onset can be delayed. That means small changes we make in daily life really can have a big impact.
Here are the 10 things Professor Livingston does herself:
Wear hearing aids – good hearing helps keep your brain stimulated and socially connected.
Regularly check eyesight – poor vision can increase risks of accidents and social withdrawal.
Be cholesterol aware – managing cholesterol helps protect brain and heart health.
Keep track of blood pressure – high blood pressure is a major dementia risk factor.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol – both can cause long-term harm to the brain.
Skip late-afternoon coffee – good sleep matters, and caffeine can get in the way.
Don’t stress about sleep – worrying can make things worse; focus on healthy sleep habits instead.
Stay active throughout the day – regular movement supports brain and body.
Stay social and keep your brain working – connection and learning protect against decline.
Don’t obsess over longevity – aim for balance and wellbeing, not just years lived.
It’s a practical, realistic list—not about doing everything perfectly, but about giving your brain the best chance to stay healthy.
As Professor Livingston reminds us: dementia isn’t always preventable, but with the right lifestyle habits, many cases can be delayed or avoided.
A Problem Shared is a Problem Halved
Every week, we share an honest story from a caregiver — the things most people are too afraid to say out loud.
This Week’s Caregiver Story-
"I’m mentally and physically exhausted. I can’t afford outside help, and my husband follows me everywhere I go. I don’t even get a moment to myself. I love him, but I feel like I’m drowning, I just need a break, even for a short while."
Harvey says:
Thank you for being so honest. Many caregivers feel the same way but are scared to say it out loud. Needing space doesn’t mean you love your partner any less, it means you’re human.
Here are a few steps that may help:
Micro-breaks at home: Even if you can’t leave the house, short moments matter. Try putting on headphones with music or a guided meditation, or stepping into another room while leaving the door open so your loved one still feels safe.
Give them simple tasks: Since they want to stay close, you can involve them in small, repetitive activities… folding towels, or sorting photos. It buys you mental breathing room while helping them feel useful.
Support in the UK:
Contact your local council Adult Social Care team… they can assess both your needs and your loved one’s, and sometimes arrange free or subsidised respite.
Carer’s organisations like Carers UK or Age UK offer helplines, peer groups, and practical support.
Ask your GP for a carer’s health check, this recognises your own needs as part of the care plan.
Support in the US:
Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) — they coordinate respite services, day programmes, and caregiver support groups.
Look into the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP), which provides counselling, training, and limited respite services.
Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900) if you need immediate emotional support or practical advice.
Most importantly: please don’t feel guilty for needing a break. Caregivers can’t pour from an empty cup. Even small, regular bits of support can make a huge difference to your wellbeing and your ability to keep caring.
Harvey
If something’s been on your heart lately, let us know. We read every word. Your voice could offer comfort to someone else navigating the same journey.