Did you know that the number of Canadians living with dementia is expected to triple between 2020 and 2050? At the current rate, by 2030 there will be 21 new cases of dementia diagnosed in Canada every hour. If these numbers don’t shock you, you may either be one of the few whose life hasn’t yet been touched by this life-altering disease, or you may be one who is all too familiar with it. But do you know that there is something we can do to slow this trend?
While there are some factors that cannot be changed in the development of dementia, such as age, sex, and genetics, emerging research shows that small lifestyle tweaks can make a big difference in brain health. It might seem early to start thinking about next year’s calendar, or maybe it’s exactly the right time to think ahead, particularly if your 2026 calendar provides tips on how to reduce your risk of developing dementia.
Northern Health’s (NH) new 2026 calendar, “Think ahead: A yearlong dementia prevention guide” explores what works—and why it’s never too early (or too late) to start. The calendar is based on a 2024 study that found almost half of dementia cases in Canada could be linked to 12 risk factors that are considered modifiable. This means we may be able to lower our chances of developing dementia through everyday actions like staying active and keeping our minds busy.
In Canada, some of the greatest risk factors include high blood pressure, hearing loss, and lack of physical activity. That means that any actions we can take to lower our blood pressure, protect our hearing, and move our bodies are actions that can help prevent dementia down the road. Other actions explored each month include caring for your mental well-being, maintaining social connections, eating well, and reducing the use of substances such as alcohol and commercial tobacco.
Everyone needs a calendar, right? Why not try one that supports your health? Visit Dementia | Northern Health to learn more about dementia and download your copy today!
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