June 13, 2024
Forgetting is one thing, prevention is way better
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Forgetting is one thing, prevention is way better
Matthew Tukaki
Dementia is a growing concern worldwide, and Māori men in New Zealand face unique challenges in preventing and managing this condition. With higher rates of risk factors and barriers to healthcare access, it is crucial to adopt a culturally sensitive and comprehensive approach to dementia prevention for Māori men.
According to my research dementia encompasses a range of neurological conditions that impair memory, thinking, and behaviour, severely affecting daily life. Common types include Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Key risk factors include age, genetics, cardiovascular health, diabetes, smoking, and lifestyle factors.
For Māori men, the higher prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, coupled with socioeconomic disadvantages and limited access to healthcare, exacerbates their risk of developing dementia. Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions that respect and incorporate Māori cultural values and practices.
Key Strategies for Dementia Prevention
1. Promoting Cardiovascular Health
Heart and brain health are closely linked, and managing cardiovascular risk factors can significantly reduce the risk of dementia:
• Blood Pressure Control: Regular monitoring and management of blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication.
• Diabetes Management: Proper management of diabetes with diet, exercise, medication, and regular check-ups.
• Heart-Healthy Diet: Encouraging a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
2. Encouraging Physical Activity
Physical activity is crucial in maintaining brain health and preventing dementia:
• Community Sports and Activities: Promoting involvement in culturally relevant physical activities, such as kapa haka or waka ama (outrigger canoeing), can make exercise more appealing.
• Daily Exercise: Encouraging at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as walking, swimming, or gardening.
3. Cognitive Engagement and Education
Mental stimulation and lifelong learning can help protect against cognitive decline:
• Cultural Practices: Encouraging engagement in traditional Māori practices, such as carving, weaving, and storytelling, which require mental focus and skill.
• Educational Programs: Providing access to adult education and cognitive training programs that promote continuous learning and mental challenge.
4. Promoting Social Engagement
Strong social connections and community involvement are protective against dementia:
• Whanau and Community Support: Fostering strong family ties and community networks to provide emotional and social support.
• Social Activities: Encouraging participation in social gatherings, community events, and group activities that enhance social interaction.
5. Reducing Risky Behaviours
Addressing behaviours that increase dementia risk is crucial:
• Smoking Cessation: Implementing culturally tailored smoking cessation programs to reduce tobacco use among Māori men.
• Alcohol Moderation: Promoting moderation in alcohol consumption through education and support programs.
6. Enhancing Access to Healthcare
Improving access to healthcare services is vital for early detection and management of dementia risk factors:
• Culturally Competent Care: Training healthcare providers to deliver culturally sensitive care that respects Māori values and practices.
• Mobile Health Clinics: Providing mobile clinics and outreach services to deliver healthcare in remote and underserved Māori communities.
• Financial Support: Offering financial assistance for healthcare services, including transportation and medication costs, to reduce barriers to access.
7. Leveraging Traditional Knowledge and Practices
Incorporating traditional Māori knowledge and practices can enhance dementia prevention efforts:
• Rongoa Māori (Traditional Māori Medicine): Integrating traditional healing practices and remedies with conventional medical approaches.
• Spiritual Well-being: Recognizing the importance of spiritual health and incorporating it into holistic health strategies.
8. Research and Data Collection
Ongoing research and accurate data collection are essential for understanding and addressing dementia in Māori men:
• Community-Based Research: Conducting research that involves Māori communities and respects their knowledge and perspectives.
• Data Transparency: Publishing data on dementia rates and outcomes to inform policy and intervention strategies.
Preventing dementia in Māori men requires a holistic and culturally sensitive approach that addresses the unique risk factors and barriers they face. By promoting cardiovascular health, encouraging physical and cognitive engagement, fostering social connections, reducing risky behaviours, and improving healthcare access, we can work towards reducing dementia rates and enhancing the quality of life for Māori men. This collaborative effort involves healthcare providers, policymakers, and Māori communities working together to ensure that Māori men receive the care and support they need to maintain their cognitive health and overall well-being.
Radio Waatea and its board would like to advise that the opinions expressed in this article are those of Matthew Tukaki and not necessarily the views of Radio Waatea, its Management or its Board. Matthew is also the former Chairman of Suicide Prevention Australia and Director of the New Zealand Governments National Suicide Prevention Office. Matthew was also Chair of Australias National Suicide Prevention Coalition.