Age-related hormonal changes, such as those occurring during menopause, can indeed affect cognitive health. Menopause, marked by a decline in estrogen levels, has been associated with cognitive changes in some women. Estrogen plays a role in maintaining brain health, including synaptic plasticity, neuroprotection, and neurotransmitter regulation.
Research, like the study published in "Menopause" in 2017, suggests that the hormonal fluctuations during menopause may contribute to cognitive symptoms, including memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings. These cognitive changes are often referred to as "menopausal brain fog."
However, it's essential to note that not all women experience significant cognitive changes during menopause, and the impact varies among individuals. Lifestyle factors, genetics, and overall health also play significant roles in cognitive health during this stage of life.
References:
Greendale, G. A., Huang, M. H., Wight, R., Seeman, T., Luetters, C., Avis, N. E., ... & Karlamangla, A. S. (2017). Effects of the menopause transition and hormone use on cognitive performance in midlife women. Neurology, 88(16), 1546-1552.
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