It’s Never Too Early—or Too Late—to Protect Your Brain Health

No—dementia is not a normal or inevitable part of ageing. While getting older increases risk, dementia results from specific diseases and injuries that damage brain cells. According to the 2024 Lancet Commission, nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors, even for people with a higher genetic risk.

“I know people with dementia who are working. It’s not what you think it is.” – Dave C

Dementia arises from neurodegenerative and vascular diseases or injuries, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, or frontotemporal dementia, strokes and traumatic brain injuries. Risk factors include non-modifiable elements (e.g. age, genetics) and several modifiable factors such as smoking, obesity, hearing and vision loss, high blood pressure, diabetes, cognitive inactivity, depression and traumatic brain injury.

While there’s no cure yet, research shows nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by addressing modifiable lifestyle and health factors, such as maintaining cardiovascular health, staying active, protecting hearing, reducing diabetes risk and staying mentally and socially engaged.

Yes. While most people diagnosed with dementia are over 65, early-onset dementia can begin before age 65. Dave was diagnosed in his 50s. He’s now focused on brain health, exercise and advocacy.

“Some people are scared to face it—but strangely, I was having the time of my life. I became more social.” – Dave C

Stigma can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, isolation, shame, and lower self-worth. Public attitudes—like assuming a person with dementia can’t continue to make meaningful contributions—can also undermine community inclusion and discourage people from seeking help.

“People living with dementia; they deserve dignity, autonomy, they’re still the captains of that ship.” – Jessica

Dementia-specific programs and services, support groups and online communities can help. Caregivers often need specific supports and spaces where they can be honest about what they are experiencing and feel understood.

If you are a caregiver of a person living with dementia who needs support, visit https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/programs-services/find-support for help. 

“You need people you can really let it out to. Support is everything.” – Kristin

No. Dementia is a neurological condition, not a psychiatric disorder. However, the stigma around dementia is often rooted in misunderstandings and outdated ideas.

“People still whisper about the ‘crazy old person.’ We need to change that.” – Dave R (caregiver)

Warning signs can include difficulty remembering recent events, struggling with familiar tasks, getting lost, experiencing language issues and changes in personality, mood, and behaviour. But dementia affects everyone differently. If you or someone you know is worried about having dementia, seek the help of a healthcare professional.

• Stay physically active
• Eat a healthy diet
• Avoid smoking and drinking excessive alcohol
• Stay socially connected
• Keep learning new things
• Manage conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Address Depression
• Get your hearing and vision checked and treat any issues

“I lift weights, I swim, I write. It helps my brain. It helps my spirit.” – Dave C

Start with compassion. Learn about dementia. Don’t pull away—lean in. Ask questions. And know that there is support. If you or someone you know has been recently diagnosed, visit Alzheimer Society of Canada for more information. 

“My mom looked at me one day and asked, ‘Where is Terri?’ I drove around with her until she remembered. That was love.” – Terri

The Alzheimer Society of Canada estimates that as many as 772,000 people of all ages in Canada may be living with dementia right now. As the population gets older, that number is expected to rise sharply, reaching nearly 1.7 million by 2050. By then, almost 1 million caregivers may be needed to support them. While dementia mostly affects older adults, it touches many people’s lives. In fact, a 2024 survey found that 74% of Canadian adults said they know someone who has or had dementia.

Yes! Even though more people in Canada are living with dementia because our population is ageing, the rate at which people are being newly diagnosed each year (adjusted for age) has actually gone down over the past 20 years. The total number of people living with dementia (also adjusted for age) has also been going down in recent years. This shows that efforts to reduce risk—like promoting brain-healthy lifestyles—can make a real difference.

The earlier, the better.

The Lancet Commission highlights that brain health is influenced across our entire lives—from childhood to late life. Risk factors accumulate over time, so taking action in your 30s, 40s and 50s—or even earlier—and later can make a significant difference.

While dementia most often affects people over 65, nearly half of these cases could be delayed or prevented by targeting modifiable risk factors such as: hearing loss (especially in midlife), high blood pressure, physical inactivity, diabetes, smoking, depression, low social contact, excessive alcohol use, air pollution and traumatic brain injury.

Midlife (ages 40–65) is a particularly important window, but it’s never too early—or too late—to start taking action. Building healthy habits throughout your life supports better brain health as you age.