The number of people living with dementia is expected to triple by the year 2050, says Alzheimer's Disease International.
The group represents Alzheimer groups across the globe.
It's estimated about 35 million people have dementia worldwide.
In Manitoba, officials peg the number at about 19,000 people.
The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba said the numbers are rising in the province, similar to other parts of the world.
"The number of people developing dementia is increasing. That's because of the number of baby boomers coming through," says Norma Kirby with the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
A new report states the global cost of responding to dementia will exceed $604 billion in 2010.
"Number one – there is the cost on the medical system for the physicians' time, the medications. Then, there are the costs for those who may be using long-term care," says Kirby.
Martha and Lawrence Singer have been married for almost 64 years.
They lived in Winnipeg for most of their lives, operating their own business and raising five children. Ten years ago, things started to change for the couple when Lawrence was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
"It's not the way we wanted life to go, but we have no choice," says Martha.
For the last two years, Lawrence has lived in a seniors' home where Martha visits him almost every day.
She said she's felt the financial strain, but the greatest cost is the emotional impact on her family.
- with a report from CTV's Jillian Taylor
