Summary
Recent polling shows that fear and stigma prevent many Canadians over 55 from seeking dementia care. However, "not knowing" isn't a strategy. This article explores how early diagnosis provides access to lifestyle interventions and community support, ensuring that no one has to navigate the journey of cognitive change alone.
As we enter Alzheimer’s Awareness Month this January, a new national study has pulled back the curtain on a difficult truth: while more than half of Canadians worry about dementia, many of us are still too afraid to talk about it.
For The Health Insider community, staying proactive about our health is a priority. However, a recent Leger poll of 1,500 Canadians reveals that stigma is still preventing people from getting the help they deserve.
The Reality of the “Fear Factor”
The data shows a significant disconnect between our concerns and our actions. While half of the country worries about a dementia diagnosis, a large portion would rather stay in the dark:
- 53% of Canadians worry about developing dementia.
- 66% fear losing their independence or becoming a burden to loved ones.
- 24% (1 in 4) say they would actually prefer not to know if they had the condition.
- 46% admit they wouldn’t even know where to turn for information or help in the event of a dementia diagnosis.
Why “Waiting and Seeing” Can Be Costly
It is human nature to avoid what scares us. But as Christina Scicluna, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Canada, points out: “Avoiding a diagnosis doesn’t stop dementia from progressing; it only delays access to care, information, and support that can improve quality of life.”
For those of us 55+, early detection is a powerful tool. It opens the door to lifestyle interventions that support brain health, early access to emerging treatments, and planning that ensures your wishes are respected.
Is it Aging or Something More?
Use this checklist to help distinguish between common “senior moments” and signs that may warrant a conversation with a healthcare professional.
| Feature | Normal Aging | Possible Dementia Sign |
| Memory | Forgetting names but remembering them later. | Memory loss that disrupts daily life. |
| Familiar Tasks | Needing help with new tech settings. | Difficulty driving to a local grocery store. |
| Time & Place | Confusing the day but figuring it out later. | Losing track of dates or the current season. |
| Conversations | Struggling to find the “right” word occasionally. | Stopping mid-sentence or repeating stories. |
| Judgment | Making a bad decision once in a while. | Frequent decline in judgment or hygiene. |
If you are experiencing several signs in the right-hand column, consider booking a baseline cognitive assessment with your family doctor.
The “Forget No One” Campaign
This month, Alzheimer Societies across Canada have launched the Forget No One campaign. The goal is to ensure no Canadian faces this journey in isolation. Through nearly 100 chapters, the Society offers counseling and support groups specifically designed for those living with dementia and their care partners.
How You Can Take Action
The Alzheimer Society invites you to help break the stigma during the National Day of Action on January 28, 2026.
- Wear the Symbol: Pin on a Forget-Me-Not flower to show your support.
- Join the Conversation: Share a photo on social media with the hashtag #ForgetNoOne.
- Get Informed: Visit alzheimer.ca/forget-no-one to find resources.
Knowledge is Your Best Defense
The most important takeaway is that you are not alone. While the statistics show that fear and stigma are common, they don’t have to be the final word. By staying informed and reaching out, you take control of your future. Every step toward awareness helps replace fear with hope when living with a dementia diagnosis. Remember: avoiding the conversation isn’t a strategy, but community support is.
Resources & Support
Online Resources: Visit alzheimer.ca for free educational guides.
National Support Line: Call 1-800-616-8816 for info and local connections.
~ Read more from The Health Insider ~
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The information provided on TheHealthInsider.ca is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. TheHealthInsider.ca advises consulting a medical professional or healthcare provider when seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. To read about our editorial review process click here.
