Brain health is wealth… recent research has sparked a critical conversation about dementia prevention, and the message is both sobering and hopeful. One of the key take-aways is that we have more control over our cognitive future than we might think.
This year, RBC Wealth Management and the Women's Brain Health Initiative brought together leading experts, researchers, and advocates at Canada's inaugural Women's Brain Health Summit to explore actionable strategies for protecting our brains at every age.
Here is a 6-minute video summary from the 2025 Toronto Summit.
Two Statistics That Are Impossible to Ignore…
1. Nearly 70% of Alzheimer's patients are women
Neurodegenerative diseases don't affect everyone equally. Women face a disproportionate level of risk, making prevention more critical than ever.
2. 45% of dementia cases could be prevented
Scientific discoveries show that nearly half of all dementia cases could be avoided through healthier lifestyle choices. This means real, tangible control over our cognitive destiny. The factors that can be controlled are summarized in the “Six Pillars of Brain Health” below.
The Six Pillars of Brain Health
Lynn Posluns, Founder and President of the Women’s Brain Health Initiative has distilled decades of research into six essential pillars of brain health. These aren't complex medical interventions… they're accessible, evidence-based lifestyle choices that anyone can adopt:
1. Brisk Walks
2. Eat Well
3. Socialize
4. Relax
5. Sleep Well
6. Never Stop Learning
How These Pillars Protect Your Brain
Brisk Walks: Regular cardiovascular exercise increases blood flow to the brain and promotes the growth of new brain cells—a process called neurogenesis.
Eat Well: Nutrition directly impacts cognitive function. A brain-healthy diet, rich in antioxidants and omega-3s, supports neural health and protects against decline.
Socialize: Social engagement stimulates multiple cognitive functions and has been shown to reduce dementia risk by strengthening neural networks.
Relax: Chronic stress accelerates brain aging. Stress management techniques protect your brain from the damaging effects of sustained cortisol elevation.
Sleep Well: Quality sleep is when your brain consolidates memories and clears out harmful proteins. Poor sleep accelerates cognitive decline.
Never Stop Learning: Continuous mental stimulation builds cognitive reserve—your brain's resilience against aging and disease.
Take Action Today
Your brain health journey doesn't require a complete life overhaul. Start by identifying one or two of the six pillars that resonate most with you, and build from there. Whether it's adding a daily walk, trying a new recipe, joining a community group, or enrolling in that course you've been considering—every choice counts.
For more strategies, insights, and resources to help you proactively plan for a long and healthy retirement, visit the RBC Wealth Management Longevity: Aging Well hub.
Explore the Full Summit Video Recap Library
Visit Longevity: Aging Well Hub
About the Women's Brain Health Initiative
Established in 2012, the Women's Brain Health Initiative (WBHI) is a Canadian and U.S. charitable foundation dedicated to protecting the brain health of women, caregivers, and families. Through evidence-informed education and research funding, WBHI is working to combat brain-aging disorders that disproportionately affect women and inspire meaningful, lasting change.
- Brad Weatherill
