Women's Brain Health Initiative

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Women's Brain Health Initiative

Raising funds for research and education to combat women's brain aging diseases. Because our grey matter, matters.

Women’s Brain Health Initiative (WBHI) helps protect women’s brain health by focusing its resources on research to combat brain-aging disorders that disproportionately affect women, and by creating compelling preventative health education programs, grounded in science, so there is a greater understanding by the public of the best ways to prolong their cognitive vitality. Our Six Pillars of Brain Health are the most important lifestyle choices that protect your brain health as you age.

01/10/2026

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to confront the realities of a disease that affects far more Canadians, and disproportionately more women, than many realize.

Recent Canadian survey data show that stigma around dementia remains widespread. Many people fear disclosure, worry about being dismissed, or would rather not even know their diagnosis. Caregivers, most of whom are women, report high levels of emotional stress, depression, and financial strain. More than half of Canadians are concerned about developing Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, yet misunderstanding and silence persist.

The burden is not evenly shared. Women represent roughly two-thirds of Canadians living with dementia, are twice as likely to die from it, and by 2050 more than one million Canadian women are expected to be affected. Women also shoulder the majority of unpaid caregiving, provide more hours of care, and are more likely to see their own health and financial security decline.

Beyond longevity, women face unique biological risks, including the effects of menopause and reproductive history, and once diagnosed, the disease often progresses faster in women. Yet research, education, and support systems have historically failed to reflect these realities.

That is why Women’s Brain Health Initiative (WBHI) is vital.

WBHI exists to close these gaps by advancing women-specific brain health research, confronting stigma, supporting caregivers, and translating science into practical action. During Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the message is clear: women’s brain health cannot be an afterthought. Understanding, prevention, early action, and support must reflect who is most affected, and WBHI is leading that charge.

Stay connected with us because knowledge is not static, and neither is science. By staying connected, you gain access to evidence-based insights, expert voices, and practical tools that turn awareness into action. Together, we can change how women understand, protect, and advocate for their brain health and for those they love.

01/08/2026

When women gather with purpose, stories have the power to change how we see and how we act.

At the recent Women’s Brain Health Summit, Marcia Gay Harden shared her caregiving journey with honesty and compassion, giving voice to the realities so many families live every day. Her story reminded us that brain health is not an abstract concept. It is personal, emotional, and deeply human.

This is why we produced the Summit. To bring science, lived experience, and action together, and to ensure caregivers are seen, supported, and heard.

Comment *REPLAY* and we’ll send you the link to join the waitlist for access to recorded sessions, event highlights, and key takeaways.

01/06/2026

Nutrition is one of the six pillars of brain health, and winter is peak season for many foods that fuel your brain.
 When the temperature drops, nature gives us what we need most.
• Root veggies like carrots and parsnips for slow-release energy
• Citrus for immune support and collagen production
• Dark leafy greens for iron and folate
• Winter squash for antioxidants that protect brain cells
 They are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help support cognitive function, mood regulation, and a healthy immune system.

Eat with the season. Support your brain.
 🍽️ Want all five winter recipes featured? Comment *RECIPES* and we’ll send you the full collection.

01/03/2026

Women make up nearly 80% of autoimmune disease cases.

Symptoms aren’t “in your head.” They’re signals.

Women’s higher rates of autoimmune disease stem from: • X-chromosome immune gene differences • pregnancy-related immune changes • hormonal fluctuations across the lifespan

These same factors also increase vulnerability to postpartum depression, cognitive decline, and dementia. 
Understanding these links is crucial to effective prevention, screening, and treatment that truly reflect women’s biology.

Comment *MOM* and we’ll send you the link to read the full article.

12/27/2025

BrainFit helps you take small daily steps that support better brain health today and protect cognitive function for the future. It translates the science behind the Six Pillars of Brain Health into simple habits you can practice consistently. By tracking these habits, BrainFit turns insight into action.

Tracking your habits makes the invisible visible. It helps you notice what supports your memory, focus, sleep, and energy, and what gets in the way. Instead of guessing, you start to see patterns.

When you track your habits, you: • Stay accountable and follow through on what you intend to do. • See your progress and build confidence from even small wins. • Spot patterns early so you can adjust before issues escalate. • Connect choices with outcomes like clearer thinking or better sleep. • Transform goals into routines that actually stick.

Tracking does not have to be perfect. It simply keeps your brain health top of mind and turns prevention into a daily practice, not an abstract idea.

BrainFit was created to close the gap between what we know and what we do. Many people are aware of the science but are unsure how to apply it. BrainFit makes prevention practical, measurable, and personal so you can protect your cognitive health with confidence.

To get a head start on your 2026 brain-health goals, comment *brain* and we’ll send you the link to download BrainFit - Free Habit Tracker app.

12/25/2025

This season reminds us of the profound meaning of community. Your support fuels science, sparks discovery, and helps protect the brain health of women everywhere.
Wishing you joy, connection, and moments that make memories bright. Merry Christmas from Women’s Brain Health Initiative.

12/23/2025

New research suggests people with osteoporosis may face a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, especially women.

Large long-term studies show that adults with lower bone density are significantly more likely to develop dementia, and machine-learning data revealed that osteoporosis predicted future Alzheimer’s in women but not men.

Scientists now believe the link is biological, not just age-related: bone cells release proteins and hormones, especially sclerostin, that may influence brain aging and even promote Alzheimer’s changes like beta-amyloid buildup.

Because some osteoporosis drugs block sclerostin, researchers are investigating whether these medications could one day reduce or delay Alzheimer’s risk. Overall, bone health may be a meaningful early indicator of Alzheimer’s risk, particularly in women.

Comment *MOM* and we’ll send you the link to read the full article.

12/20/2025

A HISTORIC FIRST: THE INAUGURAL WOMEN’S BRAIN HEALTH SUMMIT.

On December 1–2, WBHI hosted the sold-out, first-ever Women’s Brain Health Summit, presented by RBC Wealth Management, with over 500 attendees, 78 tables, and a record-setting 600-person waitlist.

Our honorary co-chairs, Sandi & Jim Treliving, helped welcome a star-studded lineup, including: Geena Davis, Marcia Gay Harden, Emma Heming Willis, Lisa Genova, Dr. Gillian Einstein, Dr. Wendy Wolfman, Pauline Maki, Liisa Galea, Dr. Samir Sinha, and many more.

Moderated conversations led by Jeanne Beker, Cheryl Hickey, Lisa LaFlamme, Dr. M. Natasha Rajah, Ph.D., Dr. Marla Shapiro C.M. and Dr. Vivien Brown MDCM, CCFP, FCFP, MSCP.
Expertly emceed by WBHI ambassador Pattie Lovett-Reid.

Groundbreaking discussions on menopause, research innovation, prevention, caregiving, and healthy aging ignited a national conversation and, most importantly, sparked action. Thank you for helping make history for women’s brain health.

Comment *REPLAY* and we’ll send you the link to join the waitlist for access to recorded sessions, event highlights, and key takeaways.

12/18/2025

Brain fog isn’t “all in your head.”
 Research indicates that chronic gut inflammation can impact memory, focus, and mental clarity through the gut–brain axis.

Supporting gut health is a crucial way to promote lifelong cognitive vitality, particularly for women, who are disproportionately affected by inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

Do you have the guts to keep your brain healthy?

12/16/2025

The holidays can be joyful, but for caregivers, they can also feel overwhelming. Amid the celebrations, remember that your well-being matters too.

• Simplify expectations. It’s okay to scale back traditions or say no to what feels like too much.
 • Ask for help. Accepting support from family or friends is not a weakness; it’s essential.
 • Protect moments of rest. Even short breaks can help recharge your energy and patience.
 • Stay flexible. Routines may shift, and that’s okay. Focus on what truly matters.
 • Be kind to yourself. You are doing the best you can, and that is enough.

To all caregivers navigating this season, you are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated.

Comment *holiday* and we’ll send you our free guide: Tips for Caregivers During the Holidays.

12/14/2025

Happy Chanukah to all who are celebrating.

Mark this Festival of Lights season with moments of reflection, resilience, and hope. The light kindled reminds us that even a small flame can illuminate the way forward, and of the power of knowledge, community, and perseverance to brighten even the darkest days.

Address

30 St. Clair Avenue W, Suite 900
Toronto, ON
M4V3A1

Website

http://wbhi.org/, http://twitter.com/womensbrains

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