[Report] A dementia strategy for Canada: Together we achieve - 2025 annual report

The 2025 report to Parliament continues to gauge progress toward the national dementia strategy's ambitious aspirations by drawing on public health data and public opinion research results related to preventing dementia, advancing therapies, and improving the quality of life of people living with dementia and dementia caregivers. It also shares an overview of the reach and results of dementia initiatives at the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) since the release of the strategy in 2019.

Data points on prevention have been updated and expanded to align with the 2024 Lancet Commission on Dementia findings, which have added two risk factors. While some risk trends show improvement in Canada, others have remained stable or worsened. Data points related to dementia research investment and activity show a steady increase over the longer term. Data points related to quality of life also show improvement. However, a much higher percentage of dementia caregivers continue to experience distress compared to caregivers of those without dementia.

The report shares insights from public opinion research undertaken for PHAC since 2020, noting the nature and degree of change for repeated questions. Results from this research show how Canadians' awareness, knowledge, and attitudes are changing over time. For example, more people now believe dementia has a major impact in Canada (43% in 2024 compared with 35% in 2020). At the same time, the number reporting that they know someone with dementia has remained constant at about three-quarters (74% in 2024 versus 75% in 2020).

Findings from recent research about the unique challenges faced by people living with dementia and dementia caregivers during climate-related events and the tools to support safety and quality of life during these events are also highlighted in this year's report. These events are becoming more common in Canada and can be especially difficult to navigate for those living with dementia.

"Extreme weather events driven by climate change are increasingly becoming a part of our daily lives. Some populations, such as people living with dementia and dementia caregivers, are more vulnerable to the impacts of climate-related emergencies than others. They can face significant challenges during a climate-related event, particularly when an evacuation is required. We need to work together to ensure that the needs of those living with dementia and their caregivers are considered in all aspects of emergency planning to keep our communities strong, healthy and resilient."

– Dr. Natasha Crowcroft, Acting Chief Public Health Officer of Canada

This annual report shares information that was current as of June 2025.

Published: 2026-05-08