ADDRESSING DEMENTIA IN NORTH AMERICA: CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Abstract

Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias constitute a major and growing challenge to the wellbeing of individuals, families and society in the United States and Canada. The prevalence of dementia in the US is projected to almost triple from 5 million persons now to 14 million by mid-century. In Canada, the number of persons affected will nearly double from about 750,000 to 1.4 million. Actions underway in Canada in research, caregiver support and community intervention will be presented. Using the US National Dementia Plan as a model, it will be argued that a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach is necessary that includes: public awareness and community and workplace interventions; basic and applied research leading to better prevention, diagnosis, treatment and eventually, a cure; quality clinical care and support for affected individual and families.