Health condition

Dementia & memory

Expert insight, personal stories and practical advice on dementia & memory from the Wellbeing Magazine archive.

Dementia_Care

Life

Finding Peace of Mind: A Family Guide to Choosing Dementia Care

Families receiving news that a family member has Alzheimer’s disease can be devastated. This is the start of navigating unfamiliar territory while they try to understand what this diagnosis can mean. They also need support during this difficult time, and many might be faced with a lot of responsibilities that are going to multiply quickly. See more info about Alzheimer’s when you go to this page.

By Rachel Branson · 4 Sept 2026

Life

How to Find the Highest Quality At-Home Care in Ontario

Finding the right care for someone you love is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The comfort of home can have a profound impact on a person's well-being, especially as they age. However, as care needs evolve, navigating the physical and medical changes that come with aging can become increasingly complex for families.

By Rachel Branson · 7 Aug 2026

Why Seeing a Medicare Doctor Matters for Your Health

Body

Why Seeing a Medicare Doctor Matters for Your Health

Let's be honest, navigating healthcare after you hit 65 can feel like learning a new language. But here's the thing: connecting with the right Medicare doctor completely changes the game

By Rachel Branson · 13 Dec 2025

Plant-Based Nutrition for Mental Health: What the Research Says

Body

Plant-Based Nutrition for Mental Health: What the Research Says

We’ve known for some time that food fuels the body, but science now shows it also profoundly shapes the mind. Rates of anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline have risen alongside diets dominated by ultra-processed foods, sugar, and stimulants — all of which disrupt gut health and inflammation pathways that directly influence mood.

By Rachel Branson · 12 Nov 2025

Thoughtful woman sitting across wooden desk from medical doctor

Body

Should We Accept Medical Diagnoses?

You or a close friend may have been given a medical diagnosis of a chronic disease and been told there is no cure, that it will need lifetime medication, the disease may shorten life, and told to just carry on and enjoy the last years as much as possible! NOW THAT IS A BLEAK FUTURE!

By Rachel Branson · 2 Nov 2025

Can Saffron Really Lift Your Mood? The Science Behind This Golden Spice

Body

Can Saffron Really Lift Your Mood? The Science Behind This Golden Spice

For centuries, saffron has been more than just a spice. Known as “red gold,” it has flavoured Persian dishes, coloured Buddhist robes, and featured in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine as a symbol of vitality and joy. Ancient poets even described saffron as the scent of happiness.

By Rachel Branson · 15 Sept 2025

Vote for Your Favourite Charity

Charity

Vote for Your Favourite Charity

Voting is now open for the public to vote for seven charities in Great Britain to receive a share of funding raised thanks to players of The Health Lottery

By Rachel Branson · 18 Aug 2025

How to Care for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

Mind

How to Care for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

To care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, set a fixed routine, use calm language, ensure home safety, support meals, prevent wandering, and track behavior daily.

By Rachel Branson · 22 Jul 2025

Start Your Brain Health Routine Today

Mind

Start Your Brain Health Routine Today

Maintaining brain health as we age is essential for supporting memory, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.

By Rachel Branson · 22 Jul 2025

Key Reasons Why Private Home Care is Important

Home

Key Reasons Why Private Home Care is Important

As the population ages and healthcare demands grow, private home care has emerged as an essential service that provides tailored, compassionate support

By Rachel Branson · 9 May 2025

Experiencing Trauma: Survival Mode

Mind

Experiencing Trauma: Survival Mode

When we experience trauma, the brain shifts into survival mode. The amygdala — your brain’s alarm system — stays active, constantly scanning for danger.

By Rachel Branson · 1 May 2025

Coffee… Loved, Hated, Blamed.

Food

Coffee… Loved, Hated, Blamed.

Yet, whether for performance, the morning ritual, or the company it keeps, we all find ourselves sipping it. So, is coffee good, bad, or neither

By Rachel Branson · 6 Feb 2025

The Steps to Happiness as an Older Person

Mind

The Steps to Happiness as an Older Person

Happiness is essential for your wellbeing, and yet you might often feel as if it is an elusive concept. Although it is nigh on impossible to be happy all the time

By Rachel Branson · 24 Dec 2024

How Animals Can Help Our Well-Being 

Mind

How Animals Can Help Our Well-Being 

Do you ever find yourself in a better mood after spending time with a dog or another type of animal? Animals can contribute to human well-being

By Rachel Branson · 28 Nov 2024

Mountain Blood: The Ancient, Earthy Miracle

Food

Mountain Blood: The Ancient, Earthy Miracle

Picture this: your morning coffee, that sacred elixir which fuels the start of your day, now infused with a substance that looks like tar, tastes like ancient earth

By Rachel Branson · 6 Nov 2024

5 Reasons to Make Walking Part of Your Day After Retirement

Body

5 Reasons to Make Walking Part of Your Day After Retirement

Discover five compelling reasons to make walking part of your daily routine after retirement. Learn how this simple activity can boost your health, wellness, and overall quality of life during your retirement years

By Rachel Branson · 17 Oct 2024

Assisted Living: When Is Right For You?

Home

Assisted Living: When Is Right For You?

Deciding to move to an assisted living facility is a huge choice! Whether you’re making it for yourself, or a loved one, it's vital that the decision is measured and not taken lightly.

By Rachel Branson · 23 Jul 2024

How to Recognize Dementia in a Parent or Loved One

Body

How to Recognize Dementia in a Parent or Loved One

As people get older, the risk of dementia increases. While it’s a pretty common condition, many don’t get it, and it never affects two people in exactly the same way.

By Rachel Branson · 7 Jul 2024

How Exercise Improves Physical Health and Mental Well-being

Body

How Exercise Improves Physical Health and Mental Well-being

Exercise isn’t just about fitness; it’s a game-changer for your overall well-being. Exercise helps build and maintain muscle mass, improves heart health, and has far-reaching positive implications for the brain.

By Rachel Branson · 18 Jun 2024

Unlocking the Power of Meditation for Elderly Well-being

Body

Unlocking the Power of Meditation for Elderly Well-being

In a world often consumed by the fast-paced nature of modern life, the practice of meditation has gained increasing recognition as a powerful tool for promoting holistic health and well-being.

By Rachel Branson · 28 May 2024

How To Deal With The Challenges Of A Parent With Dementia

Body

How To Deal With The Challenges Of A Parent With Dementia

Dementia is a condition that can deeply affect families, altering the relationship between a parent and their children. As cognitive functions decline, emotional and practical challenges can arise, making it difficult to cope.

By Rachel Branson · 2 May 2024

5 Steps to Take in Early Stages of Dementia

Body

5 Steps to Take in Early Stages of Dementia

As we get older, we’re more likely to worry about our cognitive health. It's important to look out for the first signs of dementia and take action early as doing so can truly improve life for both the person with dementia and their family.

By Rachel Branson · 18 Apr 2024

Simple Yet Effective Ways to Intake CBD Oil!

Body

Simple Yet Effective Ways to Intake CBD Oil!

CBD is becoming increasingly popular among health enthusiasts, yet many must know its benefits. Even if you know about CBD, you must learn the best ways to consume it. CBD oil is one of the CBD variants derived from hemp plants, and it has exceptional health benefits.

By Rachel Branson · 12 Apr 2024

6 Long Term Effects of Chronic Drinking

Body

6 Long Term Effects of Chronic Drinking

Chronic drinking affects more than a million Americans every year. People who suffer from alcohol addiction also fail or hesitate to get the help they actually need.

By Rachel Branson · 18 Dec 2023

A Beginner's Guide To Medicinal Cannabis

Body

A Beginner's Guide To Medicinal Cannabis

In the last few years, medicinal cannabis has made its way onto news headlines across the globe, having been hailed for its life-changing properties which can help those suffering from various illnesses including epilepsy, chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.

By Rachel Branson · 7 Nov 2023

The healing power of classical music 

Body

The healing power of classical music 

Music is a huge part of most people's lives. Whether you listen to it on your daily commute or when you are cooking up a storm in the kitchen, music taste is unique and personal.

By Rachel Branson · 25 Oct 2023

Why do we need Omega 3?

Why do we need Omega 3?

Jane McClenaghan, Nutritionist behind Vital Nutrition talks us through the importance of omega 3 in your diet and the benefits of foods high in omega 3

By Rachel Branson · 1 Jun 2023

How does sport help with the well-being of participants?

Body

How does sport help with the well-being of participants?

ou might be throwing on your running shoes and practising to become the next Mo Farah, or pulling on your shirt and training hard like Van Dijk, sport is a great all-round activity for those looking to improve their well-being

By Rachel Branson · 15 May 2023

Why are NMN supplements a must-have?

Why are NMN supplements a must-have?

Picture this: You're sitting in a rocking chair on your front porch, sipping a cup of tea and feeling better than you have in years. Your energy levels are up, your mind is sharp, and your body feels strong and healthy.

By Rachel Branson · 24 Apr 2023

Intermittent Fasting for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide

Intermittent Fasting for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide

Intermittent fasting has become a conversational trend in the health and wellness space for the last decade. While the concept is not new, studies now provide evidence that safe intermittent fasting has health benefits for our bodies and brains.

By Rachel Branson · 24 Mar 2023

What is a pescatarian diet, and why is it good for you?

What is a pescatarian diet, and why is it good for you?

A pescatarian diet that includes fresh seafood can offer numerous health benefits. Consuming fresh seafood from a reputable fresh seafood market or ordering fresh seafood online can provide the omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart and brain health.

By Rachel Branson · 16 Mar 2023

7 Ways Sugar Steals Your Brainpower

7 Ways Sugar Steals Your Brainpower

If you love sugary sweets, sodas, or snacks, know that they don’t love you back! Decades of research reveal that sugar has have a detrimental effect on brain health

By Rachel Branson · 7 Mar 2023

Seniors With Dementia- How To Manage Incontinence

Body

Seniors With Dementia- How To Manage Incontinence

Aging brings several health issues, and multiple conditions can make life tough for patients and caregivers. Urinary incontinence is common in seniors with dementia in the later stages.

By Rachel Branson · 16 Sept 2022

The Pished Fish For Father's Day

The Pished Fish For Father's Day

It’s certainly not easy being a father! Bad backs, grey hair, no hair, a gradual capitulation of sporting prowess, memory loss, a lowering beer threshold, tighter belts, more loo pit-stops are just a few of the many pitfalls that lie in wait to crush our already fragile egos.

By Rachel Branson · 3 Mar 2022

Vitamin K2 has potential to prevent and slow Alzheimer’s Disease

Vitamin K2 has potential to prevent and slow Alzheimer’s Disease

Science publication Nutrients recently published a review analysing the mounting evidence that connects vitamin K2 to factors involved in Alzheimer’s disease. It concluded that Vitamin K2 has the potential to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s and contribute to its prevention.

By Rachel Branson · 23 Jul 2021

Taking Care of Your Aging Health- All The Things That You Should Do

Body

Taking Care of Your Aging Health- All The Things That You Should Do

After a whole life of robust youth, taking care of yourself in the autumn of your life is more than necessary. This is the time when your body undergoes a lot of changes, some of which are subtle and unnoticeable, whereas others make their presence felt.

By Rachel Branson · 10 May 2021

Want to add spark to retirement years? Here is what you can do!

Body

Want to add spark to retirement years? Here is what you can do!

Have you ever thought about your retirement years? It is like packing your bags for a trip. You will be seeing a major change in your life. Till now you have spent your days working, but now you have all the time in your hand. This transition sometimes can become rough. So, planning for it earlier can save you from a lot of hustle-bustle.

By Rachel Branson · 1 Apr 2021

What is ketosis and what are the benefits?

What is ketosis and what are the benefits?

The keto diet is associated with some pretty amazing benefits. These benefits come as a result of being in ketosis, a proven, testifiable, metabolic state. But what is ketosis?

By Rachel Branson · 15 Dec 2020

Why there is magic in mushrooms

Why there is magic in mushrooms

As a heart centred business owner, coach and yogi, it is so important to me to maintain balance and wholeness in my life. To keep my mind sharp, clear and focused and my body healthy, I indulge in a regular diet of meditation and a side of mushrooms.

By Rachel Branson · 23 Nov 2020

How A Healthy Home Environment Assists Wellbeing

Body

How A Healthy Home Environment Assists Wellbeing

Many of us are well-versed on the effects of diet and exercise on wellbeing, but our physical environment is less often discussed. However, the Marmot Review (2010) found that there was a distinct correlation between living standards and health;

By Rachel Branson · 27 Oct 2020

Dehydration Nation: Are YOU Drinking Enough?

Body

Dehydration Nation: Are YOU Drinking Enough?

Good hydration is essential for our bodies to run properly. The average person can last for up to eight to twelve weeks without food - but only three to five days without fluids. But we are not hitting our targets; the Recommended Daily Allowance for water is 2.5 litres for males and 2 litres for females, but the average person consumes just 1.7 litres daily.

By Rachel Branson · 16 Oct 2020

Support for isolated dementia carers

Support for isolated dementia carers

Essex-based charity, Dementia Adventure, is offering free online support to the thousands of dementia carers and families across the UK who may feel isolated and unsupported during the coming weeks.

By Rachel Branson · 31 Mar 2020

How to Find the Right Alzheimer’s In-Home Care in Long Island

Body

How to Find the Right Alzheimer’s In-Home Care in Long Island

While the majority of Long Island residents are young people, about a quarter of the population are senior citizens. Some of the individuals from the aging group are living out their lives as they enjoy their retirement. Unfortunately, some are gradually losing their memory and suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

By Rachel Branson · 29 Jan 2020

2020 Fitness Events in The North East for a new you

Body

2020 Fitness Events in The North East for a new you

The start of a New Year is always a great opportunity to get some new, healthy habits into your routine. But many of us allow our good intentions to fade fast — more than 80% of people give up on their resolution six weeks into the New Year.

By Rachel Branson · 6 Jan 2020

The Ultimate Bangkok Spa Massage Experience

Body

The Ultimate Bangkok Spa Massage Experience

Health Land offers a full range of Ayurvedic, traditional spa and massage packages, where guests can relax and unwind in a truly tranquil environment.

By Rachel Branson · 13 Nov 2019

How to Cope with Loneliness in Old Age

Body

How to Cope with Loneliness in Old Age

Loneliness has a large presence amongst the older generations. 43 per cent of those aged 60 and above live alone while half of older people consider their TV as their biggest source of company.

By Rachel Branson · 25 Sept 2019

Lack of sleep can put you at risk

Body

Lack of sleep can put you at risk

There are many factors that play a part in your overall wellbeing but one thing that is for certain is that sleep, or lack of it, can massively impact our day-to-day lives – both mentally and physically.

By Rachel Branson · 13 Jul 2019

No aluminium – no Alzheimer’s

Body

No aluminium – no Alzheimer’s

Research by UK scientists shows that if it wasn’t for aluminium, Alzheimer’s Disease might not have emerged as widespread as it is today.

By Rachel Branson · 12 Jan 2019

Enjoy Optimal Health!

East Sussex

Enjoy Optimal Health!

The good news is that these two factors are probably the most important and other bit of good news is that these two factors are closely linked, so any improvement in one will result in an improvement in the other! So the route to optimal health is reduced to learning how to improve just these two factors in our lives.

By Rachel Branson · 2 Oct 2018

Why stress can be damaging for your brain health

Body

Why stress can be damaging for your brain health

It might seem obvious that stress is bad for your health; after all, who hasn’t had a tough day at work, and left feeling run down? But stress can also be bad for your brain, in terms of both mental and cognitive health. Chronic stress can result in changes to nerve structure

By Rachel Branson · 16 Aug 2018

Coffee that’s Good for You and Good for the Environment

Body

Coffee that’s Good for You and Good for the Environment

SO NEW research released by the American College of Cardiology suggests drinking three cups of coffee a day protects you from heart issues but the many benefits of the world’s most popular beverage don’t.

By Rachel Branson · 22 May 2018

Health benefits of Turmeric

Health benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric has a deep, golden-orange colour and looks similar to ginger. It is widely used as a spice in cooking. Turmeric is usually boiled, sun-dried and then ground into a powder, and it is.

By Rachel Branson · 4 Apr 2018

Dementia - The Missing Link

Body

Dementia - The Missing Link

There are at present approximately 850,000 cases of dementia in the UK and this looks set to rise to over a million by 2025. Nearly 40,000 of those suffering are under the age of 65 yrs old which by today's standards is considered young.

By Rachel Branson · 3 Mar 2018

Taking a risk with your hearing

Body

Taking a risk with your hearing

Almost three quarters of UK adults have never had their hearing checked by a hearing care professional.

By Rachel Branson · 28 Jan 2018

Holiday Heaven

Holiday Heaven

As most of you who follow my articles and social media pages know, over the last ten years I’ve been to the little known island of Hydra in Greece an hour and half by.

By Rachel Branson · 1 Jul 2017

Music for the brain!

East Sussex

Music for the brain!

role in dementia care & one Sussex care home has capitalised on music’s therapeutic effects by partnering with Alzheimer’s initiative: Singing for the Brain

By Rachel Branson · 4 May 2017

How to quit sugar

How to quit sugar

‘That chocolate bar is calling my name!’ How many times have you reached for it, even though you were not hungry? Why is it so hard to resist sugar and sugary snacks, especially around.

By Rachel Branson · 11 Mar 2017

Your gut microbiome

Body

Your gut microbiome

Regular readers of Wellbeing Magazine will know I have a little obsession with the human microbiome which has been ongoing now for many a year. What’s exciting is that this area of medicine, is.

By Rachel Branson · 7 Mar 2017

The Federation of Holistic Therapists

East Sussex

The Federation of Holistic Therapists

The Federation of Holistic Therapists, Eastbourne & South Downs Local Support Group - Calendar of events 2017

By Rachel Branson · 6 Mar 2017

The four basic pillars of health

East Sussex

The four basic pillars of health

Take responsibility for these four pillars of health and discover the truth that we may not need those pills we thought essential for our health!

By Rachel Branson · 15 Jan 2017

Liz Norton on Changing your perspective

Body

Liz Norton on Changing your perspective

Liz Norton is nothing if not a fighter. Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at the age of six weeks old, her parents were warned not to expect her to live beyond her teens. It was.

By Rachel Branson · 6 Jul 2016

6 tips to help ward off dementia!

East Sussex

6 tips to help ward off dementia!

Take action now and you can significantly reduce your chances of developing dementia. In East Sussex alone, one in six people over the age of 80 has dementia

By Rachel Branson · 25 Feb 2016

B vitamins

B vitamins

Clearly B vitamins are on people’s minds. What are they, and more importantly how crucial are they for our health and longevity?

By Rachel Branson · 5 Sept 2015

Living with the challenges of dementia

East Sussex

Living with the challenges of dementia

Dementia is becoming an increasing challenge, not only for many older people, but also for their close family and friends... is particularly challenging for

By Rachel Branson · 7 Jul 2015

Vitamin B12 deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency

I cannot begin to tell you the importance of Vitamin B12 and the problems of not getting enough in your diet can have on your health.

By Rachel Branson · 1 Sept 2014

Memory Loss At A Glance

Body

Memory Loss At A Glance

As our bodies age, so do our brains. Memory loss is a sign of an ageing brain. It can be infuriating to continually search for car keys, forget the name of an acquaintance halfway through a conversation, or walk into a room and forget why you’re there!

By Rachel Branson · 2 Jun 2014

Caring for an older parent

Body

Caring for an older parent

Mum having a fall, Dad having a stroke, Gran developing dementia… all events that suddenly make us leap into action so that we adapt to caring for an older parent.

By Rachel Branson · 7 May 2014

Heavy metal toxicity

East Sussex

Heavy metal toxicity

Heavy metal toxicity is something I am coming across more and more frequently in my clients with ME, CFS and Fibromyalgia.

By Rachel Branson · 1 Mar 2014

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