Alaska Department of Health’s Fresh Start campaign offers free programs adults can join to increase physical activity, choose healthy foods and drinks, quit tobacco use and more. Last year, more than 4,000 Alaska adults enrolled in Fresh Start programs and made meaningful changes to meet personal goals. They’ve achieved healthier weights, managed their diabetes, improved their blood pressure, and stopped smoking or vaping.

Since the Fresh Start campaign started, it has focused on supporting Alaskans to take actions to improve their physical health. Fresh Start’s new dementia messages focus on how these same healthy changes also improve brain health and reduce chances of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia. Dementia is a name for symptoms associated with a decline in memory, thinking, and abilities. People who develop dementia have trouble with daily life and basic tasks. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but it is not the only one.

Alaska’s new Fresh Start dementia messages are important for adults of every age. Being active, eating healthier and managing blood sugar are among 12 proven habits that can improve brain health and reduce dementia risk.

“Our brains are designed to store a lifetime of memories, solve life’s most complex problems, and instantly turn mere thoughts into our best actions,” said Dr. Robert Lawrence, Alaska’s chief medical officer. “And just like the rest of the body, our brains need to be exercised and provided with good nutrition to avoid deterioration in the complex network of neurons and synapses that give us the ability to think, act, remember, and communicate.  If you want support to your health, body and mind, Alaska’s Fresh Start programs are here when you are ready.”

New dementia messages provide important education for Alaskans of all ages

The Alaska Department of Health is using its Fresh Start campaign to reach thousands of Alaskans with new messages from the department’s recently created Dementia Education and Prevention Program. A state law created the department’s dementia program. Across the nation, Alaska has the fastest growing population of adults 65 and older. An estimated 10% of Alaska seniors have Alzheimer’s Disease and related types of dementia. The number of Alaskans with Alzheimer’s disease is projected to reach about 11,000 in 2025.

Alaska’s Fresh Start campaign website now includes this dementia education and shares the habits that may improve brain health.

In addition to the website, Fresh Start will share its new dementia-focused messages in many other ways. This includes printed and online free handouts for health care providers. The website includes a brochure and a handout focused on reducing chances of dementia. 

The campaign will run a new video about actions you can take to reduce chances of dementia. Another new video focuses on the important link between staying active and brain health. Getting regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do to protect brain health. It also helps you stay independent as you age.

“We know now that dementia is not an inevitable part of aging,” Smith said. “It’s never too late to make healthy changes.”