Dementia within Indigenous population to increase 273% by 2050

Among Indigenous populations across Canada, their numbers suggest an increase of 273 per cent.

With September being World Alzheimer’s month, many Montrealers and Canadians know someone who struggles with the disease, the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada estimates that the number of people living with dementia is expected to increase to 187 per cent by 2050.

Among Indigenous populations across Canada, their numbers suggest an increase of 273 per cent.

The report, which was published earlier this year, says the percentage of Canadians represents the general population while the 273 per cent is only among 10,800 people of Indigenous ancestry living with dementia. This percentage increase is still significantly higher with some calling for more education on risk factors and ways to help elders’ quality of life.

“We really, really have to empower people with as much education, not only about the disease, but once again, to understand the resources that are available in the community,” says Certified Dementia Care Consultant (PAC) Claire Webster.