Australian-first Brain CARE Clinic helping people reduce dementia risk

30 Sep 2026

St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney has launched an Australian-first Brain CARE Clinic trial to help people take practical, personalised steps to reduce their risk of dementia and stay independent for longer.

The eight-week program supports participants to identify and act on modifiable dementia risk factors before dementia takes hold, with a focus on areas including sleep, diet, physical activity, blood pressure, smoking and alcohol use.

The clinic was devised by St Vincent’s Senior Neurologist Professor Bruce Brew and Neurologist Dr David Jakabek, bringing together expertise across neurology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, exercise physiology and cognitive training.

Each participant receives a free, personalised plan and is supported by a smart watch and dedicated Brain Care App to help track progress and build sustainable habits over time.

The first cohort of six patients is already underway, with two further cohorts planned. Participants complete cognitive testing at the start of the program, then again at eight weeks, six months and 12 months, allowing the team to better understand how targeted lifestyle support may influence brain health over time.

Professor Brew said the clinic reflects growing evidence that dementia risk can be reduced by identifying and addressing modifiable risk factors earlier.

“There’s good evidence that it can be prevented at a population level. More likely it’s delaying onset. But even delaying onset has significant advantages,” Professor Brew said.

Research suggests a significant proportion of dementia cases may be prevented or delayed by addressing risks such as high blood pressure, physical inactivity, poor sleep, smoking, alcohol use and social isolation. With Australia’s ageing population and rising rates of chronic illness placing increasing pressure on hospitals and health services, preventative models like the Brain CARE Clinic may help people remain healthier, independent and at home for longer.

Patients can be referred by their GP, through community groups, or may self-refer if they are concerned about their memory or know they have risk factors for dementia. If successful, the Brain Care Clinic could provide a practical blueprint for other public hospitals across Australia, showing how early, personalised and multidisciplinary care can help people stay well, connected and in control of their lives for longer.

St Vincent’s Brain CARE Clinic can be contacted as follows:

Phone: 02 8382 4976
Email: svhns.braincareclinic@svha.org.au.