Coinciding with the start of the Memory Walk & Jog campaign to Get Active, Beat Dementia:
This week our Bondi doctors and Bondi road GPs write about dementia and the impacts this can have on Bondi residents.
Dementia is a growing health concern worldwide, and raising awareness about its risks, diagnosis, and prevention is crucial. The Get Active, Beat Dementia fundraising events aim to support research and awareness campaigns dedicated to reducing dementia’s impact. These events promote a healthy lifestyle while generating funds for dementia-related programs and initiatives.
The Health Awareness Campaign Behind Get Active, Beat Dementia
Get Active, Beat Dementia aligns with national and international campaigns focused on brain health. The initiative encourages physical activity, healthy eating, and cognitive engagement as essential strategies to reduce dementia risk. By participating in these events, Bondi residents can contribute to dementia research while improving their overall well-being.
Understanding Dementia and Its Types
Dementia is not a single disease but a syndrome characterized by a decline in cognitive function, affecting memory, reasoning, and daily functioning. The most common types of dementia include:
- Alzheimer’s Disease – The leading cause of dementia, marked by the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain.
- Vascular Dementia – Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often linked to stroke or cardiovascular disease.
- Lewy Body Dementia – Associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain, leading to cognitive decline and motor symptoms.
- Frontotemporal Dementia – Characterized by degeneration in the frontal and temporal lobes, affecting personality and behaviour.
- Mixed Dementia – A combination of different types, typically Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.
Diagnosing Dementia: Tests and Imaging Scans
Early diagnosis of dementia is key to managing the condition effectively. Medical professionals use various tests to detect cognitive decline:
- Blood Tests – To rule out other causes of memory issues, such as vitamin deficiencies and thyroid disorders.
- Cognitive Assessments – Simple memory and problem-solving tests performed by our Bondi doctors & Bondi GPs or referral to a neurologist.
- Brain Imaging Scans:
- MRI and CT Scans – To detect brain shrinkage or abnormalities.
- PET Scans – To identify changes in brain function related to Alzheimer’s disease.
Dementia Risks and Health Concerns for Bondi Residents
Bondi’s vibrant lifestyle includes a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. However, risk factors for dementia remain a concern, particularly for individuals with:
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Poor diet and high alcohol consumption
- Cardiovascular conditions like hypertension or diabetes
- High stress levels and lack of cognitive engagement
Protective Measures to Prevent Dementia
Bondi residents can take several steps to reduce their dementia risk, including:
- Staying Physically Active – Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain.
- Following a Healthy Diet – Mediterranean-style diets rich in vegetables, fish, and healthy fats support brain health.
- Engaging in Cognitive Activities – Puzzles, reading, and social interactions keep the mind sharp.
- Managing Chronic Conditions – Controlling blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels reduces risk.
How Bondi Patients Can Access Dementia Health Checks
At Ocean Medical – Bondi Medical Centre, our male and female GPs on Bondi Road provide comprehensive health assessments to detect early signs of dementia. Patients concerned about memory loss or cognitive decline can book a consultation for:
- Cognitive function screening
- Blood tests to identify underlying conditions
- Referrals for brain imaging and specialist evaluations
There are Limitations of Dementia Investigations
While diagnostic tools help assess cognitive decline, they have limitations:
- Blood tests cannot directly diagnose dementia but help rule out other causes.
- Imaging scans detect structural brain changes but may not confirm specific dementia types.
- Some cognitive tests may not identify mild early-stage dementia.
Dementia is considered a clinical diagnosis, meaning it is primarily diagnosed through a doctor’s evaluation of a patient’s symptoms, medical history, cognitive assessments, and physical examination, rather than solely relying on a single laboratory test
Trust our Female doctors, GPs at Ocean Medical – Bondi Medical Centre
At Ocean Medical Practice, our Bondi doctors & GPs are committed to supporting dementia awareness and prevention. Whether you’re looking for a memory check-up or ways to improve brain health, our medical centre doctors on Bondi Road provide expert guidance tailored to your needs.
Book an appointment today at our Bondi medical centre on Bondi Road and take proactive steps toward maintaining cognitive health!
