Preventing Dementia: What the New WHO guidelines Mean for All of Us

Few health conditions evoke as much fear as dementia. Many of us have watched parents, grandparents, partners, or other loved ones experience the devastating effects of cognitive decline. Dementia gradually takes away memory, independence, and quality of life long before it becomes life-threatening. In Australia, dementia is now the leading cause of death, making prevention and risk reduction more important than ever.

In July 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) released updated guidance after reviewing the latest evidence on dementia prevention. While there is still no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, the guidelines provide encouraging insights into practical steps that may help reduce risk and slow progression in people experiencing early cognitive changes.

No Magic Pill

One of the clearest messages from the WHO review is that there is currently no evidence that supplements or vitamins can prevent dementia. Despite the popularity of many products marketed for "brain health," researchers have not found sufficient evidence to recommend them as an effective strategy for reducing dementia risk.

Instead, the strongest evidence points to lifestyle factors and the management of chronic health conditions.

The Actions That Make the Biggest Difference

According to the WHO, some of the most effective strategies for reducing dementia risk are also some of the most beneficial for overall health:

Exercise

Regular physical activity remains one of the most powerful tools for protecting brain health. Whether it's walking, swimming, cycling, strength training, or another form of movement, staying active should be a priority at every stage of life.

Stop Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of numerous health conditions, including dementia.

Reduce Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol intake has been linked to cognitive impairment and an increased risk of dementia.

Emerging Evidence for Brain Protection

The WHO also identified growing evidence supporting several additional strategies:

• Daily cognitive training, such as puzzles, learning new skills, reading, or engaging in mentally stimulating activities.

• Reducing exposure to air pollution, which is increasingly recognised as a factor that may contribute to cognitive decline.

• Following a healthy diet, particularly dietary patterns that support cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Managing Chronic Health Conditions Matters

An important message from the updated guidelines is that brain health cannot be separated from physical health.

Effective management of conditions such as:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Diabetes

• High cholesterol

can significantly reduce dementia risk. Many of the treatments and lifestyle changes recommended for these conditions also address key dementia risk factors simultaneously.

Nearly Half of Dementia May Be Preventable

Research suggests that approximately 45% of dementia cases are associated with modifiable risk factors.

Rather than waiting until symptoms appear, we should be thinking about brain health throughout our lives, alongside physical and mental wellbeing.

Don't Ignore Hearing Loss

One often-overlooked risk factor is hearing loss.

The WHO emphasises that identifying and correcting hearing impairment is important for maintaining cognitive function. Hearing aids and other interventions can help individuals stay socially connected and cognitively engaged, both of which are important for brain health.

What About Menopausal Hormone Therapy?

Many women ask whether menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) can help prevent dementia. At present, there is not enough evidence to recommend MHT as a dementia prevention strategy. However, research in this area is ongoing, and future updates may provide greater clarity.

A Conversation Worth Having

When speaking with your GP about your health, it's worth remembering that much of the advice you receive to improve cardiovascular, metabolic, and overall health may also help reduce your future risk of dementia.

The message from the latest WHO guidance is both reassuring and empowering: while there is no miracle supplement or guaranteed prevention strategy, there are practical actions we can take today that support long-term brain health.

If there is one takeaway above all others, it is this: getting physically active should be a priority. Not only does exercise improve physical and mental wellbeing, but it may also be one of the most effective steps we can take to protect our brains as we age.

Sources

• World Health Organization. Risk Reduction of Cognitive Decline and Dementia: WHO Guidelines (Second Edition), 15 July 2026.

• Karen Burke, News GP Clinical, Royal Australian College of GPs, 20th July 2026