SEATTLE — Women go through different changes over time and have a significant risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. During menopause, many women experience insomnia, “brain fog” and difficulty remembering things.
“While this a biological change that all women undergo, we also have a window of opportunity to intervene in mid-life to change the health trajectory for women,” said Dr. Nancy Isenberg, medical director of the Center for Healthy Aging.
Studies have shown that 40% of dementia cases in the U.S. are preventable over a lifespan. Dr. Isenberg recommends staying active, avoiding sugary beverages and processed foods, eating a variety of colorful foods and treating insomnia, if present, to promote brain health.
“We know that by staying active, for example, we target similar pathways in the brain that are affected during the change in menopause,” Dr. Isenberg said.
“Brain fog” is common during menopause, and your memory can be affected by insomnia and anxiety, which are both symptoms of menopause.
“We really need to address those symptoms, which are so real and can be so challenging,” Dr. Isenberg said.
Providers at the Center for Healthy Aging collaborate with colleagues in gynecology and the Menopause Clinic to treat women during the menopause transition. Treating symptoms appropriately can help change women’s health trajectories.
The Women’s Brain Health Program at Swedish is a team-based comprehensive approach to provide care for women experiencing cognitive changes in midlife. This includes addressing behavior changes and creating a community of support to optimize cognitive function.
“With 40% of dementia cases preventable, we really need to get upstream and focus on women who face this disproportionate risk over their lifespan,” Dr. Isenberg said.
If you’d like to learn more about keeping your brain healthy as you age, visit the Providence Swedish website.
Sponsored by Providence Swedish.
Segment Producer Rebecca Perry. Watch New Day Northwest 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.