In the UK, one in 11 people over 65 are affected by dementia. Those whose longest-held job was in agriculture, fishing or forestry are 46% more likely to be affected (Arora et al., 2021). Farmers in particular face physically and psychologically demanding environments, compounded by social isolation and high rates of poor mental health. In 2019, 2.2% of suicides were from the farming community. 

Of the 14 known dementia risk factors, farmers experience several: social isolation, depression, air pollution from insecticides and machinery, hearing loss, poor diets, and excessive alcohol consumption (Roberts et al., 2025). They are also underserved by dementia services due to geographical barriers and cultural stigma around mental health which leads to delayed or non-existent support. 

Through the Mind Our Farmers project that Faye is co-leading with Martin Robertson, they’re aiming to empower Scottish farmers to improve brain health and reduce dementia risk by bridging gaps in culturally appropriate information and resources.

By working directly with farming communities, they hope to: ‍

• Open conversations and raise awareness about brain health and dementia in agricultural spaces ‍

• Improve access to practical, community-appropriate information and support 

• Build capacity for peer support within farming communities 

Take a watch of this short intro video filmed by our supporters RSABI where Martin and Faye introduce the project and share ways to get involved:

Co-producing a better future for farming families affected by dementia

Supported by the Alzheimer’s Research UK Inspire Fund.‍ ‍

If you would like to get involved or find out more, please contact Faye by emailing hello@fayewatson.co.uk

Funded by: