Menopause is a natural part of life – but new research suggests that for some women, it may also be a signal worth paying closer attention to when it comes to long-term brain health.
If you’ve experienced symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, weight gain, or brain fog, you’re not alone. While these discomforts are often seen as temporary side effects of hormonal shifts, recent studies suggest they could be linked to an increased risk of dementia later in life – particularly when symptoms are more severe or numerous.
At Senior Star, we believe awareness leads to action. That’s why we’re shedding light on the latest findings and how our holistic approach to wellness supports women’s brain health, emotional well-being, and independence through every chapter of life.
New Research: Menopause Symptom Burden May Predict Dementia Risk
A 2024 study published in PLOS One analyzed the symptom patterns of nearly 900 women around the average age of 64. Researchers found that women who reported a higher number of menopausal symptoms – including brain fog, sleep problems, and mood swings – also showed more signs of cognitive and behavioral decline, both considered early markers of dementia.
This isn’t the first time menopause has been tied to brain health. Earlier studies have shown that:
- Women who go through menopause before age 40 are 35% more likely to develop dementia (New York Post).
- Women make up two-thirds of all people currently living with Alzheimer’s disease (Alzheimer’s Society UK).
So, what’s the link? Experts point to the hormone estrogen, which supports brain function by reducing inflammation, improving neurotransmitter signaling, and combating the oxidative stress that contributes to neurodegenerative disease. Once estrogen drops during menopause, these protective effects decline.
Hormones Matter – But So Does Lifestyle
While hormone therapy is being studied as a possible intervention, the results so far are mixed and nuanced. Some types may offer behavioral benefits, but more research is needed to confirm whether hormone therapy directly reduces dementia risk (Alzheimer’s Society).
What we do know? Lifestyle choices are powerful tools in preserving memory and brain health. According to the study authors and other experts, these dementia risk-reducing interventions include:
- Regular exercise
- Prioritizing sleep
- Managing inflammation through diet and gut health
- Maintaining strong social connections
- Engaging the brain through hobbies and learning
- Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol use
And at Senior Star, we’ve built these preventive strategies into our everyday environment.
How Senior Star Supports Women’s Brain Health
At Senior Star, our wellness philosophy supports the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – through our 7 Areas of Wellness. These aren’t just words on a wall – they’re the foundation of our programs, dining, and lifestyle offerings.
Here’s how we help residents, especially women, take proactive steps in their brain health journey:
- Physical & Emotional Wellness: Through daily movement, yoga, and guided meditation, we support hormone balance, stress relief, and restful sleep.
- Intellectual Wellness: Programs that engage the mind – lectures, puzzles, art classes, and brain-boosting technologies – are offered year-round.
- Environmental & Nutritional Wellness: Our culinary teams create antioxidant-rich menus that reduce inflammation and support cognitive health.
- Social & Spiritual Wellness: Loneliness and isolation can increase dementia risk. That’s why our communities foster connection, belonging, and purpose every day.
What This Means for You
If you’re approaching or experiencing menopause – or supporting a loved one who is – this research is a call to pay attention, not panic.
Understanding your symptoms and their potential links to long-term health allows you to take early, informed action. Whether that means talking to your doctor about hormone therapy, rethinking your diet and movement habits, or seeking out a community designed to support vibrant aging – what you do now matters.
And you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Take the Next Step Toward Empowered Aging
At Senior Star, we’re passionate about creating communities that empower women – and all older adults – to live independently, joyfully, and with intention.
Want to see how our wellness-centered approach supports brain health and lifelong independence?
Schedule a tour at a Senior Star community near you or download our free Stay or Go Guide to explore whether senior living is the right next step.