As part of our commitment to caregiving, Kensington Place Redwood City is very happy to share a free virtual event to help caregivers everywhere: an expert discussion with Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medical Center. about the connection between dementia and menopause.
While the fundamental reasons why some of us will develop dementia or similar mental health issues remain a mystery, doctors and scientists continually make discoveries about the condition and the disease.
Like Alzheimer’s, many of the symptoms of menopause begin in the brain. From brain fog to hot flashes to anxiety and depression—several signs of menopause will first reveal themselves through changes in brain behavior and physiology.
The connection between women and Alzheimer’s goes even further. 60% of family caregivers are women and two-thirds of those being cared for are also women.
That’s why we hosted this free online discussion event with two experts in aging and neuroscience to impart crucial information about this association and how to help yourself and your loved one.
Get to know our speakers—experts in the field of aging and mental health
Kensington Redwood City was pleased to welcome two excellent experts to lead our discussion.
Dr. Loeb-Zeitlin graduated from the acclaimed University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and now works in conjunction with NewYork Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Susan has almost thirty years of experience due to her practice as an Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialist in NY.
Dr. Cosentino is our other guest speaker, an Associate Professor of Neuropsychology teaching at the Cognitive Neuroscience Division along with the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease—each is part of Columbia University’s Medical Center.
As part of her illustrious career, Dr. Cosentino has studied the intellectual, behavioral, and metacognitive aspects of neurodegenerative illnesses, particularly Alzheimer’s and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).
Her current project’s primary targets are to recognize the elements that explain metacognitive diversity in the range of regular to unhealthy aging and to spot the practical outcomes of metacognitive impairment on daily decision-making and way of life.
Reminding caregivers to care for themselves as well
Studies have indicated that many caregivers tend to be inadequately equipped for their role when beginning their care and frequently take care of their loved ones without any assistance.
Furthermore, more than a third of these caregivers remain in the practice of caring for another person while they are in poor physical condition themselves. Mental, physical, and emotional well-being issues can emerge from difficult caregiving situations.
Drawing upon the resources available is an important part of dealing with these challenges. Online discussions about aging health and mental well-being for those in care and their caregivers can help overcome some of these hurdles you may face or have already experienced.
What are the connections between early menopause and Alzheimer’s?
The average age for the beginning of menopause is 51, but it may start earlier due to a natural process or a medical procedure.
If a woman has a surgical procedure that involves the removal of her uterus or ovaries, there is typically a sudden menopausal transition as opposed to a gradual hormone decline.
Analysis of multiple research studies has revealed an increased risk of dementia in those individuals who went through surgical menopause earlier in life, as the lack of estrogen could have negative impacts on the brain.
Data from hundreds of thousands of women in the UK has revealed that those who enter menopause before the age of 45 may be more prone to dementia before they reach 65 years of age.
Ways to decrease your risk of developing Alzheimer’s
Even though scientists have not yet found a way to cure Alzheimer’s disease or create a specific strategy to protect against it, we know some things.
Specialists have recognized that, as women go through menopause, the danger of hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and more serious head injuries increases—each one is a potential risk factor for Alzheimer’s.
Consequently, they suggest that leading a healthy lifestyle could reduce the chances of developing these conditions.
These lifestyle changes might include the following.
Better dining habits
Eating a balanced diet, including fruits and vegetables, some protein, and whole grains. The Mediterranean diet or DASH diet, as well as the MIND diet is often recommended for a balanced diet.
Getting enough sleep
Adults should get a minimum of seven hours of sleep every day. The quality of your sleep greatly affects your overall well-being.
Exercising regularly
Two to three hours of moderate physical activity, such as walking quickly every week, can help you stay at a healthy weight.
It’s been shown that frequent vigorous exercise is linked to a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
Reduce stress
In order to reduce stress—particularly during menopause as well—it’s important to make time for yourself and engage in activities that you find enjoyable. Hobbies and interests besides caregiving can help avoid burnout.
Menopause can cause a lot of internal pressure, which can be damaging to both your physical and mental well-being.
Avoid toxins
To avoid environmental toxins, try to limit your contact with dangerous substances, such as air pollution, which has been connected with a faster rate of cognitive decline.
Stay connected
It’s also essential to stay connected with family and friends, as social isolation has been linked to an elevated chance of dementia.
Find challenges
Keeping your mind active with challenging tasks may also help reduce your risk of dementia.
Finally, it’s a good plan for people going through menopause to consult their OB-GYN and discuss how to prepare for and manage menopause symptoms.
Kensington Place Redwood City resources for caregivers
As we age, whether we’re the caregiver or the person being cared for, it’s essential to keep connected to resources and the community that can aid us in our caregiving responsibilities.
As part of our Promise to care for our residents as if they were family, we look to bring as valuable information and understanding to caregivers as possible. Caregiving isn’t just part of our business—which we take great pride in—it’s also a passion.
The rewarding moments and the challenges overcome are what make our caregiving community something we want to continue. We know what it takes to help our residents continue to achieve the best living possible.
From senior living, to physiotherapy, to our dedicated memory care neighborhoods – Haven and Connections, Kensington Place Redwood city hopes we can be an uplifting resource for you and the one you care for.
Reach out to us for more information about dementia, menopause, or Alzheimer’s disease and the benefits of Kensington Senior Living.