GPs Could Soon Predict Dementia Risk in Stroke Patients with New Tool
19 Jan 2026
The tool uses standard clinical information such as a patient’s age, sex, education level, stroke severity, history of diabetes, and previous strokes. This information can be entered into a simple Excel-based calculator to estimate dementia risk, allowing doctors to take early action where needed.
Jess Lo, lead author from UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), said cognitive problems after stroke are often overlooked, even though they can have serious impacts. “Many people experience memory or thinking difficulties in the first year after a stroke, and almost a third may develop dementia within five years,” she said. “Detecting those at highest risk early means we can plan care better and possibly slow the progression.”
The study shows that while stroke aftercare typically focuses on physical recovery, there is growing recognition that cognitive health should be assessed as part of routine follow-up. Dr Marita Long, GP and Dementia Australia medical advisor, said general practice plays a vital role in identifying cognitive decline early. “Embedding cognitive checks into post-stroke care is essential,” she said.
Professor Perminder Sachdev, senior author and Co-Director of CHeBA, said the tool could also guide health services and help allocate resources effectively, though further testing is needed before it becomes a standard part of care.
The tool is currently available to subscribers of Neurology, offering a straightforward way for clinicians to prioritise patients who may benefit most from cognitive monitoring and early intervention.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: Lo, J., Sachdev, P., et al. (2026). Predicting post-stroke dementia risk: An international study. Neurology.