Development and evaluation of a free e-learning program on dementia risk reduction for the general public: A pre-post study

BACKGROUND: There is consistent evidence for the contribution of modifiable risk factors to dementia risk, offering opportunities for primary prevention. Yet, most individuals are unaware of these opportunities. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether online education about dementia risk reduction may be a low-level means to increase knowledge and support self-management of modifiable dementia risk factors. METHODS: A pre-post study was conducted with Dutch community-dwelling individuals who registered for a free e-learning course called "Keep your brain healthy". The e-learning covers seven themes delivered week-by-week covering cognitive and physical activity, diet, and cardiovascular health, amongst others. Participants completed an online survey before starting the e-learning, immediately afterwards, and three months later. The survey covered user experience, knowledge on dementia risk reduction, motivation for, and engagement in, health behaviors. RESULTS: Of the 477 participants (70.9% women, mean age = 63 years), 339 (71.1%) completed the survey immediately after the e-learning, and 241 (50.5%) completed the three-month follow-up survey. User experiences were positive with weekly themes receiving average ratings between 7.9-8.1 out of 10. Improvements over time were seen in knowledge of dementia risk reduction, Mediterranean diet adherence, social contact satisfaction, and motivation for physical activity. Cognitive activity levels and alcohol consumption improved over time in women. Moreover, improvements in knowledge and Mediterranean diet adherence remained present three months after course completion. CONCLUSIONS: This e-learning program was positively perceived, increased knowledge of dementia risk reduction, and promoted engagement in brain-healthy lifestyles. The program can easily be implemented as a stand-alone tool or as part of larger dementia risk reduction initiatives.