When Burnley football icon Andy Payton started getting frequent headaches and struggling with his memory, he didn’t think too much of it at first.
But after his friend and former teammate Dean Windass was diagnosed with dementia at just 56, Andy decided it was time to take his own health seriously.
What came next was a shock — a diagnosis of young-onset dementia.
Now, at 57, the former striker is urging others, especially men in their 40s and 50s, to pay attention to the early signs and get checked out.
What Exactly Is Young-Onset Dementia?
Most people associate dementia with old age, but young-onset dementia happens before age 65.
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, around 1 in 10 cases are genetic, but many are linked to lifestyle factors like brain injuries, strokes, or heavy drinking.
It’s a growing concern — cases have jumped 69% since 2014, with over 70,000 people in the UK living with it under the age of 65.
Yet most younger people don’t even realise they could be at risk.
“I Knew Something Wasn’t Right” – Andy’s Story
Andy Payton noticed the classic symptoms: forgetfulness, confusion, and those nagging headaches.
When he finally got a brain scan, doctors found damage in 27 out of 68 brain tracts — and even noticed his brain had shrunk slightly.
The likely cause?
A long football career filled with repeated head knocks.
“A brain scan doesn’t lie,” Andy said.
“That’s half my brain damaged.
It explains how I’ve been feeling — and it’s scary knowing what’s ahead.”
Why This Matters for Everyone — Not Just Athletes
While footballers and athletes might face unique risks, lifestyle factors play a big role in brain health.
Scientists have identified at least 14 risk factors that can increase your chances of developing dementia early — and most of them are preventable.
Here’s what you need to know, and more importantly, what you can actually do about it.
Still Smoke? It’s Time to Quit
Smoking is linked to about 2% of dementia cases, especially in men.
The good news? If you quit, your brain risk goes back to normal.
One large study showed that former smokers had no increased risk, while current smokers had a 30% higher chance.
Even quitting at 60 can add three more years to your life.
If You Drink Too Much, Don’t Ignore It
Drinking more than 21 units a week has been linked to brain shrinkage and an 18% higher dementia risk.
But the biggest red flag is alcohol dependence.
Interestingly, some moderate drinkers fared better in studies than those who didn’t drink at all — likely because former drinkers may have had past problems, and moderate drinkers tend to stay socially active.
Bottom line: If alcohol is becoming an issue, talk to your GP or reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous.
And even if you don’t quit completely, cutting back can help your brain.
Stay Social – Even If It’s Just a Quick Chat
Humans are social creatures, and isolation can seriously harm your brain.
People who only see others once a month or less are significantly more likely to develop early dementia.
The science says any social contact helps — yes, even awkward small talk or chats with people you don’t really like.
Just get out and connect.
Can’t Hear Clearly? Get It Checked
Hearing loss might not seem like a big deal, but studies show it could increase your dementia risk by up to 24%.
Some research suggests hearing loss might have an even bigger impact on younger people.
Using hearing aids has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia by up to 17%.
Free hearing tests are available at many opticians and pharmacies — take advantage.
Depression Isn’t Just Mental — It Can Impact Your Brain
Feeling low isn’t something to brush off.
Untreated depression is a known risk factor for dementia, especially early-onset types.
Getting help makes a difference.
People who took antidepressants or went to therapy had a 25% lower risk of dementia.
Those who did both cut their risk by 38%.
Watch Your Weight — Especially If You’re a Woman
Being overweight or obese is one of the major lifestyle risks for early-onset dementia.
But small wins count.
Even losing 2kg (about 4.5 pounds) can improve brain function within six months.
Weight-loss medications like Wegovy may also help reduce dementia risk, though more research is ongoing.
Keep an Eye on Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar
Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure — often caused by excess weight — damage the tiny vessels in your brain.
That damage builds up over time, especially if you’re diagnosed young.
New research shows medications like Ozempic may lower Alzheimer’s risk, but the best strategy is prevention.
Stay active, eat well, and get your levels checked regularly.
High Blood Pressure? Lower It Sooner, Not Later
High blood pressure often goes unnoticed but can quietly raise your dementia risk, especially if it spikes between the ages of 40 and 65.
If your systolic pressure (the top number) is over 130mmHg, it’s time to take action.
Blood pressure meds not only help your heart — they also protect your brain.
Cholesterol: The Silent Brain Risk
High cholesterol is linked to around 7% of dementia cases, particularly early-onset forms.
Many people don’t know they have it because it has no symptoms.
The fix?
A healthier diet, more exercise, and if needed, statins.
These changes reduce your risk of heart disease and brain decline.
Get Moving – Your Brain Will Thank You
Exercise isn’t just about looking good — it’s one of the best ways to protect your brain.
Just 20 minutes of movement a day can cut your dementia risk by 20%.
Anything counts: a walk, swim, or even gardening.
Doing it outside may help even more by boosting vitamin D, which also plays a role in brain health.
Live in a Polluted Area? Try These Small Fixes
Air pollution, especially near busy roads, might increase your dementia risk.
Harmful particles can enter the brain, though the exact effects are still being studied.
Simple changes help — like walking down side streets instead of main roads.
Check online air quality maps to find cleaner routes.
Protect Your Head — Wear That Helmet
Even mild head injuries increase dementia risk.
Former footballers and boxers show much higher rates of early-onset disease, but it can affect anyone.
Always wear a helmet while cycling, and if you’ve had a concussion or head injury, take it seriously.
Struggling to See? Fix It
Not correcting your vision can boost your dementia risk by 47%.
Getting cataracts removed or simply updating your glasses prescription could make a big difference.
It’s a simple fix that can protect your brain over the long haul.
Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Early to Protect Your Brain
Andy Payton’s story is a powerful reminder that dementia isn’t just something to worry about in your 80s.
Your 40s and 50s are crucial years for taking action.
Whether it’s quitting smoking, managing stress, staying connected, or getting a health check, small changes now could help prevent a much harder future.