January 2026 Heart Beats

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: Heart Health Is Brain Health

Many families notice subtle changes in memory or thinking and ask an important question: Is dementia just a normal part of aging?

The answer is no.

While age is the greatest risk factor, dementia is not an inevitable part of growing older. Dementia is an umbrella term for symptoms that affect memory, reasoning, language, and the ability to carry out everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that gradually damages brain cells. Symptoms often begin subtly, such as short-term memory loss or difficulty finding words and may gradually affect judgment, communication, and independence over time.

There is currently no cure. However, research and care continue to move forward. Some newer treatments may help slow decline for certain people in the earliest stages, under specialist assessment and careful monitoring. At the same time, evidence increasingly shows that prevention and risk reduction matter.

Heart Health Supports Brain Health

Many risk factors for dementia overlap with those for heart disease. Research consistently shows that what is good for the heart is also good for the brain. Staying physically active, managing blood pressure and blood sugar, avoiding smoking, eating well, and maintaining social connections are all associated with better brain health.

Even simple daily movement helps: some studies suggest that walking 3,000–7,500 steps per day is linked with a lower risk of cognitive decline over time. (This is not a guarantee—but it’s a practical habit most of us can start today.)

Voices of Our Community

While medical science works on treatments, the human side of this journey is equally important. We reached out to the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay to ask clients and staff what brings them hope. Here is what they shared:

• “One word that gives me hope is community.”  — Staff Member
• “What gets me through the day is friends to share, laughs, and fun.”  — Client
• “It’s so comforting to talk openly and not only to have someone listen, but also to have someone fully understand.”  — Client
• “Knowing that ‘it didn’t matter our experience’ brings comfort.”  — Client
• “All we need is love.”  — Client

These voices remind us that no one should face dementia alone.

Support Close to Home

For individuals and families navigating Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay is a vital local resource. Programs such as First Link® connect individuals and families to education, guidance, and support from the moment of diagnosis.

Dementia Connect Line: (807) 358-5599 or Toll-Free 1-888-887-5140

Website: www.alzheimer.ca/thunderbay

Upcoming event

Healthy Heart Day 2026
Saturday, February 21, 2026 | Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre
A free community event for seniors and community members interested in heart health.

For more on heart health and Northern Hearts programs, visit northernhearts.org or follow Northern Hearts Thunder Bay on Facebook and Instagram.

Email: northernhearts@tbaytel.net

Submitted by Northern Hearts Group