As September was marked both World Alzheimer’s Month and Gender Equality Week – a time to reflect on how dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, disproportionately affects women. It’s an issue that’s deeply intertwined with gender, one that often goes overlooked but is critical to address as both a public health and gender equity challenge.
Women find themselves more vulnerable to dementia not only as patients but as caregivers, which creates a dual burden. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60 to 70 per cent of dementia cases, and its impact is rising steadily in Canada, with over 700,000 people currently living with the condition. The aging population will see this number increase even further. What stands out, however, is the gendered nature of these statistics: women are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to men, and they also take on the majority of caregiving responsibilities for those living with the disease.
Unpacking the gender disparity
The reasons behind women’s higher risk for Alzheimer’s are still being investigated. Biological differences certainly play a role. Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, are suspected to influence the brain in ways that may make women more susceptible to Alzheimer’s. Additionally, because women generally live longer than men, they face a greater overall risk, as age is the biggest factor in Alzheimer’s development.
But it’s not just biology that places women at a disadvantage. The psychological and emotional toll that caregiving places on women can also impact their mental health. Women, more often than not, are the ones taking care of family members with Alzheimer’s, and this unpaid labour carries significant strain. Many caregivers experience chronic stress, leading to cognitive decline and other health issues. Over time, this invisible burden creates an economic divide, with career disruptions and financial instability becoming an unfortunate norm for women caregivers.
Addressing the imbalance
To close this gender gap, it is crucial that Alzheimer’s research becomes more gender-sensitive. Historically, much of the research has centred on men, but the tide is turning as scientists increasingly study how the disease manifests differently in women. This focus on hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle factors will hopefully lead to more tailored treatments and interventions.
Yet research is only part of the solution. The caregiving role, often unpaid and underappreciated, must also be addressed. The caregiving responsibilities many women face are a societal issue, not just a family one. Advocating for more support for caregivers—whether it’s respite care, mental health services, or financial aid—is essential. Not only would this help those on the front lines of care, but it also represents a step forward in achieving broader gender equality.
How we can make a difference
Combating dementia while promoting gender equality requires both awareness and action. While Alzheimer’s disease may seem like a distant concern for some, it’s important to recognise the far-reaching consequences it has for society, especially women.
There are several ways we can help address these disparities:
- Raising awareness about the gendered impact of Alzheimer’s and dementia is crucial. By sharing information, we can help destigmatise the condition and push for more gender-sensitive research and policies.
- Supporting caregivers should be a priority. Whether offering practical help to someone looking after a loved one with dementia or simply listening with empathy, small actions make a big difference. Caregivers need support, both emotional and practical.
- Advocating for policy changes is key to creating a more gender-equal approach to dementia care. We must urge policymakers to invest more in Alzheimer’s research that accounts for gender differences, as well as funding for support services that help caregivers.
- Promoting brain health through lifestyle changes can also reduce the risk of dementia. Encouraging regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a balanced diet are all ways we can contribute to our cognitive wellbeing.
Striving for equality in alzheimer’s research and care
In recognising the unequal toll that Alzheimer’s takes on women, we are taking an important step toward a future where gender equality is integral to dementia research, care, and advocacy. Alzheimer’s is not just a medical issue – it’s a societal challenge that demands a collective response.
Let us use World Alzheimer’s Month as a springboard, not only to raise awareness but to advocate for the support, research, and policies needed to address this condition’s gendered impacts. Together, we can push for change that better supports women, whether they are living with the disease or providing care. Only through sustained effort can we ensure that gender equality remains central to the fight against dementia.