Did you know that women represent 72 per cent of Canadians living with Alzheimer’s disease1? They could be your mothers, wives, sisters, grandmothers or friends – even you.
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. is kicking off January Alzheimer Awareness Month with a nationwide campaign called The 72%. It aims to inform women in their 40’s and older about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, brain health and how the Alzheimer Society can help.
Why women?
Women live longer than men and age is a significant 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 per cent of family caregivers2, which takes a tremendous toll on these women who eventually provide round-the-clock care. The burden is especially high for women raising families and holding down jobs.
“Alzheimer’s disease and dementia affect everyone, though women are disproportionately affected”, says Maria Howard, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of B.C. “We are encouraging all British Columbians, particularly women, to know the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Whether you are concerned about Alzheimer’s disease, newly diagnosed with the disease, or acting as a caregiver for someone on the dementia journey, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is here to help”.
Learn more about The 72% campaign
Starting January 6, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. invites all British Columbians, including women, to visit www.alzheimerbc.org/the72percent.aspx to take a moment and learn the warning signs…Find out more.
