Health - Dr Ines Rio with Denis Walter - Wed 25 Mar, 2026

In this episode of Nights with Denis Walter, Dr. Ines Rio, a general practitioner from the AMA, joins Denis to discuss the growing prevalence of dementia and actionable steps to protect brain health. They emphasize that up to 45-50% of dementia cases may be preventable or delayable through lifestyle changes, including managing heart health, addressing untreated hearing loss, maintaining social connection, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities. The conversation explores how modern societal shifts—such as increased isolation, remote work, and reduced in-person interaction—may be contributing to rising mental health concerns and cognitive decline. Dr. Rio also addresses listener concerns about post-smoking weight gain, explaining it as a common, temporary phenomenon linked to changes in metabolism and oral substitution, and advises against resuming smoking. A compelling call from an 80-year-old woman who thrives in solitude challenges assumptions about isolation, highlighting that personal preference and mental engagement matter more than forced socialization. The episode closes with a reminder to get flu vaccinations and a lighthearted tease about movie character fantasies.