As estrogen levels drop after menopause, studies show that it impacts women’s memory. Memory loss is a very common symptom many seniors report. In fact, 75 percent of older adults report some degree of memory problems. Although women generally outperform men on memory tests, menopausal women report higher rates of forgetfulness.
Executive director of the North American Menopause Society, Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton explained, “Brain fog and complaints of memory issues should be taken seriously. This study and others have shown that these complaints are associated with memory deficits.”
The researchers looked at 212 men and women aged 45 to 55 who completed memory and thinking tests. The researchers found that women who went through menopause had worsened memory, compared to those who had not gone through menopause. A drop in estrogen may be responsible for the differences in memory recall.On the other hand, memory storage and consolidation was not affected by menopause.
The study was published in the journal Menopause.
Related: How long does menopause last?
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
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