Thoughts from our Founder: Nurturing Brain Health at Every Age
For so long, we believed dementia was something that simply happened. A slow, irreversible slide that came with age or genes, a fate sealed and unchangeable. But as Professor Henry Brodaty reminded us in his National Press Club address earlier this year, the narrative is changing. And thank goodness.
“The science is clear: dementia is not inevitable, and we now have the tools to delay onset and slow progression.” – Professor Henry Brodaty, National Press Club of Australia, July 2025
This isn’t just a medical breakthrough. It’s a human one. It shifts our mindset from fear to action, from helplessness to hope.
So, what supports a healthy brain?
It turns out, the brain thrives much like a garden, with stimulation, nourishment, connection, movement, and rest.
- Stay connected. Loneliness isn’t just painful. It’s a risk factor for cognitive decline.
- Keep moving. Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain. Even gentle walks count.
- Challenge your mind. Learning, reading, games, and creative pursuits strengthen brain function.
- Eat well. Diets rich in leafy greens, healthy fats, and less sugar support long-term brain health.
- Sleep. Not just rest, but deep, restorative sleep, where the brain clears toxins.
- Manage health. Controlling blood pressure, diabetes, and hearing loss can reduce dementia risk.
At Videri, this message fuels our commitment to doing dementia differently. We’re not just supporting people after diagnosis, we’re opening conversations about prevention, education, and awareness with families and the wider community.
Together, we can nurture healthier brains, stronger connections, and brighter futures.