Uniting science and government action in the fight against dementia

On October 9, CLEAR’s Executive Team and Board of Directors met with Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from both the BC NDP and BC Conservative caucuses in Victoria, British Columbia. These meetings provided an opportunity to underscore the urgent and growing need for provincial leadership and sustained investment in addressing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Representing CLEAR were Dr. B. Lynn Beattie (President Emeritus), Bob Hastings (Board Chair), Claire Lynch (Executive Director), Jaime Stein (Vice Board Chair), and Shiera Stuart (Board Member). The delegation met with provincial leaders to advocate for sustained and increased government investment in dementia research, a field that remains significantly underfunded despite its profound and growing impact on individuals, families, and the healthcare system in Canada.

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Spotlighting BC innovation in dementia research

CLEAR was honoured to showcase the groundbreaking work of Dr. Amanda Orr (Postdoctoral Researcher & CLEAR Scientist). Dr. Orr is currently pioneering 3D bioprinted "mini brains" an innovative technology that allows scientists to rstudy the disease in ways never before possible. We also had the opportunity to highlight our broader collaboration with Dr. Stephanie Willerth, whose lab at The University of Victoria is home to Canada’s most advanced 3D bioprinting technology for neurological research.

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The urgent state of dementia in Canada

As of January 1, 2025, more than 771,000 Canadians currently live with some form of dementia, a figure expected to double within a generation. Beyond the human toll, dementia places a $40 billion annual economic burden on our healthcare system and families, a cost that could triple within the next 30 years if new treatments are not found.

Research shows that delaying the onset of dementia by just 10 years could reduce that burden by up to 70% and decrease caregiving demand by nearly 1 billion hours each year. This is why continued investment in early-stage, discovery-driven research is so critical. Every breakthrough moves us closer to prevention, earlier detection, and ultimately, a cure.

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A shared commitment to the future of memory loss disease

CLEAR is grateful to the MLAs from both parties who joined us for these vital conversations. Their engagement signals a growing awareness that Alzheimer’s disease is a pressing health, social, and economic issue that requires urgent, collective action. By uniting researchers, policymakers, and community leaders, we can accelerate progress toward a future where every Canadian can age with dignity and hope.