Island Study Linking Ageing and Neurodegenerative Disease: Investigating the impact of a public health approach to dementia prevention

We are tracking adherence to modifiable risk factors for dementia over time, including lifestyle risk factors such as smoking, education and physical activity. We measure these via surveys completed each year via a dedicated online portal known as 'ISLAND Home', and track participant engagement in educational content regarding risk factor reduction. Participants complete a series of validated questionnaires annually to assess dementia knowledge, risk awareness, health behaviours, and psychosocial wellbeing. The Dementia Risk Knowledge survey (KoDERR) takes approximately 5 minutes to complete and assesses understanding of modifiable dementia risk factors. The Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale (DKAS) takes around 10 minutes and measures broader knowledge about dementia. Motivation to engage in dementia risk reduction behaviours is assessed using the Motivation to Change Lifestyle and Health Behaviours for Dementia Risk Reduction scale (MCLHB-DRR), which takes approximately 10–15 minutes. The Dementia Risk Profile (DRP), which evaluates engagement in dementia risk and protective behaviours, takes around 15–20 minutes to complete. Symptoms of depression and anxiety are assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), requiring approximately 5 minutes. Social connectedness and support are measured using the Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS), which takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. A custom survey designed for ISLAND asks about background health and lifestyle factors, taking approximately 5-10 minutes. In total, the annual survey battery takes approximately 50–60 minutes to complete. Overall duration of observation is from enrolment until the completion of the study in 2029. Retrospective data was collected from 2019 to current.