Alzheimer’s Awareness Month 2026

The Alzheimer Society of Brant, Haldimand Norfolk, Hamilton Halton, urges the public to replace stigma surrounding dementia with understanding and support.

January 6, 2026 – As Alzheimer’s Awareness Month begins, the Alzheimer Society of Brant, Haldimand Norfolk, Hamilton Halton is calling attention to the role stigma plays in keeping people from accessing support. New national polling with Leger shows that many Canadians are concerned about dementia, yet hesitate to seek information or talk about it.

This year’s Forget No One campaign, led by Alzheimer Societies across Canada, encourages open conversations about dementia so individuals and families can access support earlier. The campaign’s message is simple: No one should face dementia alone.

According to recent findings, more than half of Canadians report worrying about Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia.* Yet a significant number say they would delay reaching out for help, often because of fear, shame, or uncertainty about where to go.

“These numbers reflect what we see in our community every day,” said Michelle Lewis, CEO. “People wait to ask questions or seek support because they’re afraid of what a diagnosis might mean. But getting information early can make the path forward clear and hopeful. Our role is to walk alongside people living with dementia and their care partners at any stage of their journey.”

Across our region, the Alzheimer Society provides education, counselling, support groups, social and recreational programs, and guidance for navigating care. Local supports are available for anyone concerned about dementia, be it someone experiencing symptoms or someone connected to them.

Key national polling insights include:

• 53% of Canadians are worried about developing dementia.
• 45% fear losing independence or becoming a burden if diagnosed with dementia.
• 24% would prefer not to know if they had dementia.
• 46% are unsure where to find help or information.

“Our message this January is one of clarity and compassion,” added Lewis. “Information gives people options. Support gives them quality of life. And no one should face dementia without either one.”

The Forget No One campaign runs throughout January with resources, and tools to help the public learn about dementia and connect with their local Alzheimer Society.

*Leger is the largest Canadian-owned full-service market research firm. An online survey of 1,606 Canadians aged 18+ was completed between November 7-10, 2025, using Leger’s online panel. Leger’s online panel has approximately 400,000 members nationally and has a retention rate of 90 per cent. A probability sample of the same size would yield a margin of error of +/- 2.45 per cent, 19 times out of 20.

Media Contact

Name: John Cullen
Title: Communications Specialist
Email: communications@alzda.ca