Did you know that women represent 72% of Canadians living with Alzheimer’s disease?
The Alzheimer Society is promoting a new campaign and it aims to inform women in their 40s and older about the signs of Alzheimer’s and how the Alzheimer Society can help.
Women live longer than men and age is a risk factor. That’s why there are more women living with Alzheimer’s disease than men. Yet the impact on women is twofold. They also account for 70% of family caregivers, which takes a toll on these women who eventually provide round-the-clock care.
“With this campaign, we’re making Alzheimer’s disease a women’s issue,” says Mimi Lowi-Young, CEO, Alzheimer Society of Canada.
“Women lead busy, hectic lives, often paying the price with their own health and well-being. We’re asking them to invest time in understanding the warning signs. Whether they’re concerned about getting Alzheimer’s, have just been diagnosed or are a caregiver, we want women to reach out to their local Alzheimer Society. We can support them throughout the disease.”
Dr. David Westaway, president, Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories, says, “I am honored to be part of an organization that is present for individuals and families as they live with this disease. Ongoing research is providing hope, while advocacy, education, and support are provided to those we serve.”
Warning signs, often misunderstood or ignored, are critical. In absence of a cure, early diagnosis allows for treatment and support so people can live as well as possible and start planning for their future needs.
“Women traditionally monitor the health of their families so it’s even more important they understand this disease to be able to recognize changes in those they care for,” adds Lowi-Young.
Visit www.alzheimer.ca/the72percent to learn the signs. Alzheimer’s is the leading form of dementia. It is progressive and eventually, fatal. Today, 747,000 Canadians are living with some form of dementia.
This number will nearly double to 1.4 million in less than 20 years. For every person diagnosed, there are many who are directly affected as caregivers. The risk of dementia doubles every five years after age 65. Evidence shows the disease can lie dormant in the brain up to 25 years before symptoms appear.
- Weber