The Brain Health Support Program: A web‐based interactive platform to increase dementia literacy and awareness regarding lifestyle factors in at‐risk individuals

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundPrior studies have reported that older adults can benefit from formal educational programs about dementia. Participating in an online educational program focusing on risk and protective factors could potentially increase participants’ dementia literacy, empowerment, and engagement in brain health promotion, which in turn could reduce their dementia risk. The goal is to develop a comprehensive, compelling, and evidence‐based online educational program on risk and protective factors for dementia.MethodThe Brain Health Support Program is being developed as part of the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging CAN‐Thumbs‐Up initiative. The program is designed to improve dementia literacy, promote lifestyle changes in at‐risk individuals who are cognitively intact or have mild cognitive impairment, and evaluate its effectiveness.ResultsThe content is based on the epidemiological literature on risk and protective factors for dementia. The format is determined from a review of web‐based educational programs for older adults and is co‐created with experts, stakeholders and citizen advisors. The program contains eight interactive modules with new content provided weekly over a 12‐month period. The modules contain general information and tips on modifiable risk factors including diet, physical activity, cognitively stimulating activity, sleep, vascular health, social and psychological factors, vision and hearing, as well as information on dementia, stigma, and stereotypes. Participants have access to an individualized risk profile to determine personal goals and are given feedback on lifestyle changes. Content is available in French and English. Changes in dementia literacy, self‐efficacy, attitudes toward dementia and modifiable risk factors will be collected from the platform.ConclusionProviding access to scientifically validated education through an interactive web‐based platform is expected to have a positive effect on participants’ attitude, engagement in brain health behaviours and dementia literacy. It might also increase readiness to change and maintain positive lifestyle changes. The content and format are co‐created with users and stakeholders, which should increase its relevance and facilitate future implementation.