Women disproportionately impacted by dementia

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This article was published 14/01/2021 (1782 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

WOMEN are more likely than men to develop Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, 72 per cent of Canadians living with Alzheimer’s disease are women, according to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

According to Saskia Sivananthan, chief research officer for the Alzheimer Society of Canada, “We have known for some time that women are disproportionately impacted by dementia, both as those living with dementia and caregivers. And yet, this is not just a women’s issue. This is a crisis with harsh consequences for all Canadians when the crucial role of women in our social fabric is considered. There are no survivors of dementia. Research needs to be funded and prioritized in this way.”

It’s not just because women live longer. Stress, reproductive history and a decline in estrogen brought about by menopause all may play a role in the onset of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.

Women with a type of gene that is responsible for transporting fat into the bloodstream are at a higher risk. Depression and anxiety are also risk factors.

At the same time, women are more likely than men to be caregivers for those suffering from Alzheimer’s. In Canada, more than 747,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Because of societal expectations, women are most likely caring for them, either as a wife, daughter or sister.

According to the AARP, in the United States, “Women make up more than 60 per cent of dementia caregivers and many more will take on that role as the population of dementia patients increases in the next few decades.”

This may have a serious impact on women’s financial, physical and mental well-being. Caring for an Alzheimer’s or dementia patient is incredibly demanding, and goes far beyond the type of care provided for other types of illness. Many end up having to provide around-the-clock care. Research indicates that as the disease progresses, caregivers are more likely to feel burnout, depression, disruptions in employment and decreased finances.

Women behave differently with Alzheimer’s than men, as well. Researchers say men with the disease tend to be more verbally aggressive and preoccupied with bodily function or are apathetic, while women show more reclusive behaviour, including hoarding, refusing help and also inappropriate laughter and crying.

The problem is that we still don’t understand why this is, and this may be because of how the research is conducted. Sivananthan explains, “Women were only included in clinical studies in 1993. It is only recently that we have begun examining dementia more closely by sex and ethnicity. But we need to prioritize and fund research to make this an essential question that is answered.”

So, what can you do to reduce your risk of getting Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia?

First, get healthy and stay that way. Start eating better, consuming a well-balanced diet. Studies indicate that a diet rich in healthy fats, grains, fish and whole grains is conducive to good brain health. A Mediterranean-style diet is considered optimal. Along with a good diet, get quality sleep and exercise regularly.

As well, stimulate your brain daily by reading, and engaging with games such crossword puzzles and the daily sudoku. Exercise your brain, just like you exercise your other muscles, and make it work for you. Stay socially connected. It’s tough right now, in a time of COVID-19, but take advantage of the technology we have to reach out to others to keep up with your friendships.

And try to relieve your stress. That’s always a tough challenge, and in January 2021, it’s particularly hard. But again, it’s important to calm the brain and body down. The technology available now on our smartphones, tablets and computers makes stress relief more accessible than ever. Try meditation with one of the free apps available, or once the restrictions loosen up, consider taking yoga or mindful-meditation sessions.

Protect yourself. When you’re out biking, skiing or skating, put a helmet on. There’s some evidence that brain injuries increase the likelihood of dementia, particularly if you have had repeated concussions. So protect your head, and make sure your children do the same.

Finally, if you have chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, get them under control. Keep your cholesterol and blood-pressure levels in check. That can also reduce the risk.

The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba offers support groups, for persons with dementia and for caregivers. These are continuing virtually during the pandemic lockdown. The society also offers family education programming and physical activity, open to both caregivers and those with dementia. If you need more information, please reach out to Alzheimer.mb.ca.

People with dementia can live productive lives after an early diagnosis. Knowing the risk factors can help with an early diagnosis and can help you and your family make plans and set realistic expectations to face the future together.

Shannon Sampert is a Winnipeg-based political scientist.

shannon@mediadiva.ca

Twitter:@CdnMediadiva