Did you know that 5.5 million Canadians have been diagnosed with a chronic brain condition, and within the next 20 years, brain conditions will become the leading cause of death and disability in Canada? It is also known that policymakers and healthcare professionals in Canada are not adequately prepared to respond to this change within the population.  

 

In 2008, 26 Neurological Organisations united to create Neurological Health Charities Canada (NHCC) in recognition of the need for a coordinated and coherent approach towards brain health. The objective of the NHCC is to raise brain health to the top of the government agenda and to ensure that research, prevention, treatment, and support for people living with chronic brain conditions are universally accessible and fully funded.

Learn How to Optimize Brain Health

Scientific evidence shows that moderate exercise can reduce the risk of dementia by 30 minutes a day, whether it’s brisk walking or dancing lessons. Make sure your friends and family are involved in this. Do what everyone likes to do. The brain’s blood and oxygen supply is stimulated by any kind of activity, which is crucial for the functioning of the brain. Thus, your brain’s reserve will increase, and your memory and thinking skills will improve as a result of exercising.

The Alzheimer’s Society recommends that for the protection of dementia, a combination of exercise and good nutrition is recommended. Good cardiovascular health is supported by the consumption of healthy foods that contain high levels of nutrients, whole grains, dark leafy greens, and freshwater fish.9. It’s a well-known fact that heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure are contributing factors
for vascular dementia.

Moreover, training your brain to learn new things in new ways can also preserve brain cells and, in some cases, reverse some of the cognitive decline that occurs with age. Engaging in
activities with others, such as volunteering or participating in a book club, is even better for
keeping your brain in top form. Staying connected socially enhances mood and attitude, which are key elements of good well-being.

 

In addition, the Alzheimer Society also encourages Canadians to manage their stress, reduce or quit smoking, and wear protective headgear whenever playing sports. Thus, understanding dementia and knowing the warning signs should also be part of everyone’s brain health plan.

It’s never too late or too soon. The key is to make lifestyle changes that work for you! 

–

More useful links and resources

Being active. The Public Health Agency of Canada. This guide is designed to help Canadians improve their health, prevent disease, and get the most out of life.

BrainFit. Women’s Brain Health Initiative. A mobile application designed to track habits and help optimize brain health.

Brain health food guide: An evidence-based approach to healthy eating for the aging brain. Baycrest, 2017.  Food guide provides more evidence-based tips for healthy eating and was written in collaboration with nutritionists involved with the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA).

Canada’s food guide. Government of Canada. Recently updated in 2019, Canada’s food guide lists recommendations for healthy food choices, eating habits, recipes, tips, and other resources.

–

References

March is Brain Awareness Month – Abilities Canada – Abilities Magazine. Abilities Canada. (2018, June 22). https://www.abilities.ca/organizations/march-is-brain-awareness-month/