Almost two-thirds of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease are women. And women in their sixties are more than twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease over the rest of their lives as they are to develop breast cancer. The question we are so often asked is why? Why are women at a higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease?
The most common explanation for women’s higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease has typically been that woman on average live longer than men, and older age is the greatest risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s. However, a growing body of research is investigating biological differences, more specifically the link between menopause and Alzheimer’s.
Menopause has a significant impact on the brain. As women age, their levels of estrogen decline, leading to menopause. As estrogen levels drop, many women experience symptoms such as:
- Brain fog: trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, difficulty finding words
- Sleep disruption: restlessness, night sweats, insomnia
- Mood changes: irritability, anxiety, low mood
Some scientists believe that declining estrogen may make the brain more vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. That’s because estrogen does more than regulate menstrual cycles – it also plays a critical role in brain health by:
- Protecting brain cells and supporting mitochondrial energy production
- Promoting blood flow to the brain
- Helping maintain synaptic connections between neurons
Research shows that these protections weaken when estrogen drops during menopause.
While there are so many unanswered questions when it comes to menopause and Alzheimer’s risk, what is clear is that menopause plays a critical role in women’s long-term brain health. For that reason, there are ongoing research studies exploring biomarkers that track brain changes during menopause, the timing of hormone replacement therapy, links between tau buildup and menopause symptoms, and more.
So, what can women do?
Research suggests that certain lifestyle and medical decisions during and after menopause may help support cognitive health.
- Advocate for yourself.
Women’s forgetfulness in their 50s and 60s is often dismissed by doctors as “just menopause.” While most brain fog during menopause is temporary, it’s important to see a doctor if memory changes feel severe, persistent, or out of your norm. - Take care of your brain.
Getting quality sleep and regular exercise, eating a healthy balanced diet, socializing with others, challenging your brain, and managing stress are all lifestyle strategies that can potentially reduce the risk for dementia. - Take care of your heart.
Cardiovascular health is tied to brain health. During menopause, metabolic shifts can increase blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin resistance. Managing these can lower the chance of dementia later. - Do your research on hormone replacement therapy.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) remains controversial. Some research indicates that there is the possibility that right timing hormone replacement therapy may reduce risk but starting it after menopause may increase risk for dementia.
Alzheimer’s New Jersey® is working to raise awareness about this important women’s health issue. For more information about Women and Alzheimer’s or if you are concerned about possible signs of dementia for yourself or a loved one, call our Helpline at 888-280-6055.
