Ottawa Public Health: Understanding Dementia

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By Julia Yu

Dementia is a term many people often hear but may not fully understand. It describes changes in the brain that make it harder to remember things, think clearly, or do everyday tasks. Dementia is not a normal part of aging, but it becomes more common as we get older. However, many older adults never develop dementia (Dementia Society of Canada, n.d.).

There are many kinds of dementia. The most common is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are others too, such as vascular dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies. Some people may even have more than one type at the same time (Dementia Society of Canada, n.d.).

What Dementia Can Look Like

Dementia affects people in different ways. Some common signs include:

  • Forgetting recent events or conversations
  • Trouble finding the right words or understanding others
  • Feeling confused about time or place
  • Difficulty doing familiar daily tasks such as cooking, shopping, or paying bills
  • Changes in mood, behavior, or personality

These changes can be difficult for both people living with dementia and their families. As dementia progresses, a person may need help with everyday activities such as getting dressed or preparing meals.

Is There a Cure?

There is no cure for most types of dementia. The good news is that researchers have found that many dementia cases can be delayed — and sometimes even prevented — by taking care of our health throughout life (Livingston et al., 2024).

How to Reduce the Risk of Dementia

1. Stay Connected
Spending time with others helps keep your mind active. Try sharing meals, joining a community or faith group, attending cultural events, or simply calling a friend. In Ottawa, community organizations such as the African-Canadian Association of Ottawa (ACAO), Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO), and the Ottawa Black Mental Health Coalition offer cultural programs, social groups, and community supports that can help people stay engaged and connected.

2. Keep Learning

Learning new things helps your brain grow. Try reading, playing music, learning a new skill, or speaking a new language. Even small activities, like puzzles or games, can help.


3. Healthy Lifestyle & Diet
Eat balanced meals and try to move your body each day. Dancing, walking, and community fitness programs are all great options.

4. Check Your Hearing and Vision
Hearing or vision loss can make thinking more difficult and add to confusion. Get your hearing and vision checked regularly. In Ottawa, there are several free or low‑cost places where older adults can get hearing and vision support.

For hearing:

  • Hearing and audiology clinics across Ottawa offer free adult hearing tests, providing same‑day results and access to certified hearing professionals. You can call 2-1-1 or visit 211Ontario.ca to find a clinic near you.
  • Canadian Hearing Services (CHS) also provides hearing assessments and supports, with services available in English, French, American Sign Language (ASL), and Quebec Sign Language (LSQ), which can be especially helpful for seniors with low incomes.

For vision:

  • In Ontario, annual eye exams are free for people with certain medical conditions and for people 65 years of age and older through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
  • Many clinics also offer sliding‑scale eyewear programs, and Ottawa Public Health provides guidance on these options through its Visual Health page.

5. Get Regular Health Checks
Talk to your doctor or nurse practitioner about blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and other health conditions that can affect the brain. Treating them early can lower your risks.

Where to Find Dementia-Specific Support

If you or someone you love is worried about memory loss, specialized support is available.

In Ottawa and the surrounding area:

You can also call 211 Ontario to learn about additional programs and services in your area.

You are not alone. Support is available for both people living with dementia and their families.

References

Julia Yu is a 4th Year Nursing Consolidation Student from Algonquin College