Launch of brain health resources to support healthier futures for people with learning disabilities
A suite of new resources has been launched to support people to better understand and manage their brain health.
Launched during Learning Disability Week (15-21 June), the new resources aim to make brain health more accessible, and highlight its importance, particularly for long-term wellbeing and quality of life.
Commissioned by NHS Wales Performance and Improvement, the resources have been co-produced between Aneurin Bevan University Health Board’s Learning Disability Directorate and Brain Box Club, a group of people with a learning disability that attend Flexible Options Day Service.
The materials include an easy-read guide, five engaging videos and a template to support individuals to develop a personalised brain health plan. They promote five simple, evidence-informed ways to support brain health:
- Staying Connected
- Sleeping Well
- Eating Well
- Moving More
- Trying Something New
Why focus on people with learning disabilities?
People with learning disabilities experience significant health inequalities, including poorer access to preventative health information and services.
Evidence shows that people with learning disabilities are at increased risk of developing dementia compared to the general population. That risk increases further and at an earlier age for individuals with Down’s syndrome, with up to 75per cent of those over 60 affected.
Dr Rachel Potter, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board said:
“Our brains are central to everything we do; supporting our memories, thoughts, emotions, senses and physical functioning.
“While many people are familiar with the importance of physical health, such as looking after our hearts, brain health is equally vital, particularly for long-term wellbeing and quality of life.
“Early intervention, awareness, and preventative approaches to brain health are essential, particularly for people who are at increased risk of issues with their brain health.
“By supporting individuals to understand and improve their brain health earlier in life, we can promote independence and wellbeing, potentially delay or reduce the impact of cognitive decline and enable more personalised and proactive healthcare.
“Our new resources reflect a wider commitment across NHS Wales to reduce health inequalities, embed prevention into everyday practice, and co-produce services with the people who use them. We’re already seeing the impact of proactive, person-centred approaches in Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, with early assessments, joined-up care pathways, and lifelong support for individuals and families.”
David O’Brien, Senior Improvement Manager for NHS Wales Performance and Improvement added: “We are proud to have supported this important initiative, and we remain committed to scaling approaches that ensure that everyone can maintain a healthy brain and live well for longer.
“We encourage colleagues, partners and communities to explore the Brain Health Resources and to champion their use across services and settings.
“Launching these resources during Learning Disability Week reinforces a simple but powerful message: everyone deserves the knowledge, tools and support to live a healthy life, now and in the future. To make that a reality, we must listen to lived experience, design inclusive services , and take meaningful action to tackle inequalities.”