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Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias in CanadaPublished: ()
Diseases and injuries that affect the nervous system (the brain, spinal cord and nerves) are known as neurological conditions. Dementia - the most common of these conditions - is caused by the loss of brain cells and the breakdown of important nerve connections, leading to loss of mental functions. Symptoms can include: memory loss, behaviour changes, judgment and reasoning problems, and, changes in mood and the ability to communicate [PHAC]. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. The second-most common form is vascular dementia, which is linked to reduced blood flow to the brain. Its risk factors are common to those for stroke.
The National Population Health Study of Neurological Conditions (NPHSNC), was the first large-scale study to engage communities and collect information to understand the real impacts of neurological conditions on Canadians and on our health care system. Building on this study, the Agency continues to work with provinces and territories through the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System to track ongoing trends in the Canadian population.
3.6 Million
Over 3.6 million people in Canada are estimated to be affected by the 14 neurological conditions studied, including Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. [NPHSNC]
674,000
The number of Canadians living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is expected to climb from an estimated 395,000 in 2016 to 674,000 Canadians in 2031. [NPHSNC]
30%
Close to thirty percent of Canadians with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias also report being diagnosed with mood disorders. [NPHSNC]
58%
Well over half (58%) of Canadians with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias report mobility limitations — the highest compared to other neurological conditions.[NPHSNC]
74 hours
Family, friends, and neighbours invest about 74 hours per week to care for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. [NPHSNC]
$16.6 Billion
In 2011, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias cost the Canadian economy an estimated $8.3 billion in direct costs alone; by 2031, the direct health sector costs of dementia are projected to be as high as $16.6 billion annually. [PHAC projection modelling based on NPHSNC]