Declining memory and brain function shouldn’t be assumed to be a normal part of ageing. It’s just one that many of us have come to expect and even accept… But we don’t have to.

Kaarin Anstey

Getting older is the cause for a lot of anxiety. It’s no surprise - ageing is almost universally stigmatized by advertising, the media and pop culture. We worry about losing our looks, our stamina and fitness. And it’s not just physical, there is also an expectation that getting older means brain function and memory will decline too. 

While some of these changes are inevitable, there are some that can be easily prevented. Eating well, socialising with friends, doing puzzles and staying active have all been shown to dramatically reduce the chance of developing dementia - but in order to achieve the full benefit you need to act now. By the time you reach your senior years, the effects of lifestyle will have accumulated over decades  which is why it’s important that we make these small but impactful shifts to our lives now to ensure that when we finally do reach old age, can enjoy a  healthy and happy lifestyle. 

In 10 minutes or the length of time it takes to finish a sudoku puzzle, Professor Kaarin Anstey will share some easy tips on preventing dementia. 

ABOUT 10 MINUTE GENIUS

In this sprawling digital age where a universe of information is accessible within seconds, it's easy to be paralysed by the simple question of where to begin. 

Introducing: 10 Minute Genius, a series of short talks designed to create a space in which you can engage with new ideas. We have curated a collection of material scientists, philosophers and maths lovers to help you make some sense of this chaotic information vortex. And because you’re busy, all we ask of you is just ten minutes.