As part of the SPIN Dementia Network+ Festival, we were pleased to hold a panel event which focussed on dementia research and dementia prevention, with experts Dr Seb Walsh, Prof Claudia Cooper, Joan Viskant and Dr Orii McDermott, who also Chaired the discussion. 

The panel explored various factors that influence public understanding of brain health and how individuals can be supported in making positive changes. A key focus was on engaging diverse communities in meaningful dialogue to ensure that brain health messages are relevant and accessible to all. The discussion emphasised the importance of sharing evidence-based information in ways that empower individuals to adopt healthier habits in their daily lives; as well as advocating for community action and brain health policy. 

Some of the conversation centred on the role of diet in maintaining brain health. Seb Walsh captured this idea succinctly by reminding everyone of the message, “Eating well [for brain health] is eating food that is colourful, was recently alive, and with people that we love.” The panel also highlighted the growing understanding of the link between nutrition, gut health, and cognitive function, underscoring how dietary choices can directly impact brain health. Beyond personal options, which can vary for different communities, the panel addressed the importance of policy interventions—such as the sugar tax—which have been shown to influence consumer choices and encourage healthier choices. Education and sharing of information about our understanding of brain health was highlighted as particularly important for equipping people with the knowledge of their brain health. 

The panel discussion was recorded and can be found on the SPIN-D YouTube as an audio podcast. 

The panel comprised: 

Dr Seb Walsh, NIHR Doctoral Fellow in Public Health Medicine, University of Cambridge 

Prof Claudia Cooper, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary, University of London  

Joan Viskant, Nutritional Therapist & Musician 

Dr Orii McDermott, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham