Online videos promote brain health literacy

Misinformation and lack of understanding of memory loss, dementia and brain health are barriers to dementia risk reduction and timely health seeking behaviour. Online video technology for health promotion has been popularised with the increase in online networks, improved access to technology, and the rise of online health seeking behaviour. However, an understanding of the efficacy of this technology in the context of brain health awareness in older adults is lacking. This research explored whether three short brain health animations could reduce worry, impart new knowledge, and promote behavioural change in older adults.

Participants (8,179) completed an online survey pre- and post-engagement with three animated films.

Level of worry significantly decreased, and over half of the participants indicated that they intended to change their behaviour after watching the videos. The majority of participants indicated they had learned something new from the videos, and found the videos enjoyable. Regression analysis described how participants who reported learning from the videos were more likely to report behavioural change. In addition, enjoyment significantly predicated outcomes of learning and behaviour change.

our research suggests that short animated brain health films are effective in educating the public about memory, attention and brain health, may motivate people to make changes in lifestyle, and possibly reduce stigma towards dementia.