Women are more at risk for dementia than men, and women with dementia outnumber men by more than 2 to 1.  There are a number of potential reasons why more women than men get dementia, partially, it is because women live longer than men. The following links will provide more information and support for women living with dementia.

• The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement
• Dementia and Gender Disparity
• Why is Dementia Different for Women?

Family caregivers are critical to the quality of life of those living with dementia. However, caregivers report high levels of stress and anxiety as well as social isolation.  The following links provide resources for caregivers to help find programs, information and support while caring for their loved ones. 

• The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County | Ottawa Programs
• Dementia613
• The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County | Make a Connection
• The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County | Dementia Care Coach
• Caring for a Person Living with Dementia 
• Partners for Mental Health
• South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre | Program and Services
• Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County
• Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre

Depression is very common in people who are suffering from dementia.  Being able to identify those who are suffering from depression and seek treatment can make a huge improvement in the quality of life for that individual. The following links provide information and support for people who are suffering from dementia with depression. 

• Canadian Coalition for Seniors Mental Health
• Psychiatric Survivors of Ottawa
• Mood Disorders Society of Canada
• Government of Canada Mental Health and Wellness Resources

There are many ways that we can change our lifestyle habits to increase our chances of healthy aging and decrease our risk of dementia.  This can include finding a social network, taking up a new hobby or finding ways to control current health conditions.  You will find useful resources at the following links to help you on your healthy aging journey:

• Bruyere Digital Health
• Project Big Life
• Centretown Community Health Centre-Seniors Program
• IGeriCare
• The Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County

Research has shown that there is a significant association between mild cognitive impairment and hearing loss.  In fact, hearing loss may contribute to the onset of mild cognitive impairment.  It is important to have your hearing tested as simply obtaining a hearing aid could decrease your risk of dementia. The following links are resources for an online hearing test and further information. 

• Hearing Solution’s Hearing Test
• The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline
• Managing Mild Cognitive Impairment

There is limited data available which accurately represents the rates of dementia in marginalized populations, such as indigenous populations.  However, it is estimated that rates are higher in low income regions and in marginalized populations.  In addition, these groups have a more difficult time accessing services and resources to help them with their dementia. Below are links to resources for those 

• Monfort Renaissance Services for Seniors
• Indigenous Cognition & Aging Awareness Research Exchange
• Overcoming barriers to culturally safe and appropriate dementia care services and supports for Indigenous peoples in Canada
• Alzheimer Society of Ontario

Mild cognitive impairment is an early stage of cognitive loss present in individuals that are still able to independently perform the daily activates of living.  The good news is that the effects of mild cognitive impairment can be slowed or even reversed with lifestyle changes.  The following links provide resources for those suffering from mild cognitive impairment.

• Managing Your MCI Diagnosis
• Understanding Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)