Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston have developed a simple and accessible method to assess an individual's risk for dementia and stroke. The Brain Care Score, a series of questions that can be completed in a few minutes, offers insight into lifestyle choices and emotional well-being factors that contribute to brain health. The goal of the score is to empower individuals in taking proactive measures to prevent memory problems and reduce the risk of brain-related diseases.

Led by Dr. Jonathan Rosand, co-founder of the McCance Center for Brain Health and chair of neurology at Mass General, the research team aimed to address the question of what steps can be taken to care for one's brain and avoid the development of cognitive decline. The Brain Care Score examines various aspects such as diet, exercise habits, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, stress management, and social connections.

In the study conducted by the researchers, a perfect score of 21 was identified as the ideal goal. However, Dr. Rosand revealed an intriguing finding - even a modest increase of five points in the Brain Care Score among the youngest age group resulted in a significant 50% reduction in the risk of dementia and stroke. This underscores the importance of adopting proactive brain care measures from an early age.

For those who fall below the perfect score, Dr. Rosand advises addressing one issue at a time, starting with achievable goals such as quitting smoking or managing blood pressure levels. By focusing on these factors, significant progress can be made towards minimizing the risk of dementia and stroke.

The potential impact is immense. Dr. Rosand emphasized that by getting hypertensive individuals in the country to maintain their blood pressure within a healthy range, the number of new cases of dementia and stroke can be significantly reduced. This highlights the significance of simple lifestyle changes in preventing age-related brain diseases.

Dr. Rosand hopes that individuals will take the Brain Care Score test and discuss the results with their healthcare provider. By actively engaging in their brain health, everyone can contribute to tackling the slow-moving pandemic of age-related brain diseases. It is crucial to recognize the role that each person plays in safeguarding their brain health and taking the necessary steps to maintain cognitive well-being.

The Brain Care Score offers a practical and easily accessible tool for individuals to take control of their brain health and potentially minimize their risk of dementia and stroke. By considering factors such as diet, exercise, blood pressure, and emotional well-being, individuals can make informed decisions to protect their cognitive function and overall well-being.