Dementia affects women more than men: Causes, risks, and solutions
This article explores the reasons behind this gender disparity, covering biological, genetic, brain structure, and social factors that contribute to women's higher risk. We also discuss prevention strategies and the importance of early diagnosis.
Women over 60 face nearly double the risk of Alzheimer's compared to men
Women over 60 are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's disease compared to men of the same age. This increased risk is not simply explained by women's longer average lifespan, even though age is the greatest risk factor for dementia.
Experts emphasize that additional biological and social factors contribute to this imbalance.
According to Alzheimer's Research UK, 'women are bearing more of the impact of dementia,' pointing out that the higher incidence is not solely due to longevity but other underlying causes.
Biological and genetic factors driving higher
dementia risk in women
One critical biological difference lies in hormonal influences, particularly estrogen. Estrogen has neuroprotective properties that help maintain brain health, support memory, and reduce inflammation.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Seniors are going crazy for these comfy, stylish, easy-on shoes
Ultra-Comfortable Shoes
Undo
However, during menopause, estrogen levels sharply decline, which scientists believe increases women's vulnerability to Alzheimer's and other dementias.
Harvard Health Publishing explains that the loss of estrogen's protective effects may accelerate cognitive decline in postmenopausal women, making this a crucial phase for brain health as reported.
ApOE4 gene and genetic risks: Why women are more vulnerable to Alzheimer's
Genetics also play a significant role. The APOE4 gene variant is the strongest known genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease.
Research shows that women carrying the APOE4 gene face a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's compared to men with the same gene.
Scientists from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology highlight that understanding why APOE4 affects women more profoundly could unlock new avenues for personalized treatments (USC Gerontology Research, 2024). Studies also reveal that women tend to accumulate more beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's pathology, than men of similar age.
This greater buildup may explain why women experience more severe or earlier symptoms.
Moreover, women's brains may be differently affected by tau protein tangles, another key Alzheimer's feature as reported.
Social and lifestyle influences contributing to women's dementia risk
Women often take on primary caregiving roles for family members with dementia. This responsibility leads to chronic stress, reduced self-care, and social isolation — all recognized risk factors for cognitive decline.
The mental and physical toll of caregiving can indirectly increase women's own dementia risk. The Alzheimer's Association emphasizes the importance of supporting caregivers with resources and respite to protect their health and reduce risk as reported.
Lifestyle factors and dementia risk: How healthy habits protect women's brain health
Beyond caregiving, lifestyle choices strongly influence dementia risk. Studies show that social isolation, sedentary behavior, and poor diet increase the chance of cognitive decline.
Older women may face greater social isolation due to widowhood or mobility challenges.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and social engagement is widely recognized as a key strategy to reduce dementia risk.
Detecting dementia symptoms early can improve outcomes
Early diagnosis of dementia enables better management and improved quality of life. Since women are at higher risk, raising awareness about early warning signs is critical. Healthcare providers encourage routine cognitive screening for older women, particularly those with family history or genetic risk factors (Harvard Health Publishing, 2022).
Healthy habits to lower dementia risk
As reported by Harvard Health Publishing, 2022 and BrightFocus Foundation, 2023, experts recommend adopting brain-healthy habits such as:
Engaging in regular exercise to improve blood flow and brain plasticity
Eating a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats
Staying mentally and socially active to strengthen cognitive reserves
Managing cardiovascular risks like hypertension and diabetes, which can worsen dementia progression
Also Read |
Harvard-trained gastroenterologist shares 10 easy morning habits for better gut health, smoother digestion, and lasting energy
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
27 minutes ago
- Time of India
After hip procedure, woman, 85, set to walk
Mangalore: KMC Hospital Mangalore successfully performed a Reclaim Revision Hip System implantation, on an 85-year-old female patient. The woman sustained a severely comminuted and unstable hip fracture and was unable to walk. The procedure was skillfully led by a multidisciplinary team, including orthopaedic consultants Dr Vikram GK Bhat and Dr Sudhindra K, and anaesthetist Dr Shilpa GK Bhat. Following a detailed clinical evaluation and counselling, the woman and her family were guided through the available treatment options. Given the nature of the fracture and her overall health status, the team made a considered decision to proceed with the Reclaim Revision Hip System, a specialised implant designed to bypass the fractured bone segments and provide immediate post-operative stability. Dr Vikram said, "Elderly patients with severely comminuted hip fractures present a unique set of challenges, not just in terms of bone quality, but also their ability to recover post-surgery. In this case, a conventional approach would have risked delayed mobility and potential complications. By choosing the Reclaim Revision Hip System, we were able to bypass the fracture site and allow the patient to walk immediately after surgery, which is critical for faster recovery and overall quality of life," he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Become Fluent in Any Language Talkpal AI Undo The surgery was performed successfully without any intraoperative complications. The patient experienced an uneventful post-operative period, responded well to physiotherapy, and is now self-ambulating with ongoing rehabilitation support. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
Time of India
27 minutes ago
- Time of India
Heat alert in UK: Warnings issued across parts of England; here's how to stay safe
Image credits: getty images The time to spend some time indoors seems to be here in the UK. As temperatures soar to mid-30s Celsius, amber heat health warnings have been issued across parts of England. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced heat health warnings for the East Midlands, West Midlands, the East of England, London and the South-East from 9 am on Tuesday to 6 pm on Wednesday. Yellow warnings have been issued in the south-west, Yorkshire, the Humber, north-west and north-east for the same days. The agency said the heat was likely to have a significant impact on health and social care services, including potential for a rise in deaths, specifically among those over 65 and with health conditions. Additionally, forecasters have said constant days of high temperature could lead to the UK recording its fourth heatwave of the summer of 2025. A heatwave is considered when a location has at least three successive days with maximum temperatures exceeding a designated value, as per the Met Office. 'These kind of temperatures can result in serious health outcomes across the population … so it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun," said Dr Paul Coleman, a public health consultant at the UKHSA. 'If you have friends, family or neighbours who are vulnerable, it is important to ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Do you have a mouse? Play this for 1 minute and see why everyone is crazy about it. Play Game Undo Check in on them if you can to make sure they know that hot weather is on the way and how to keep themselves safe.' England is also known to be suffering from "nationally significant" water shortfalls, the national drought group warned. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke amid heat alert Image credits: Getty Images Overheating during the summer often causes heat exhaustion or heatstroke. A heatstroke might require immediate treatment. According to the NHS, heat exhaustion has symptoms such as feeling faint or dizzy, excessive sweating, clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, and muscle cramps. Confusion, no sweating, temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius, hot and dry skin, nausea or vomiting, loss of consciousness, and convulsions or seizures as signs of a heatstroke. How to stay safe? Image credits: Getty Images To prevent heatstroke or heat exhaustion during the unbearable heat, ensure proper hydration, stay away from the sun during the hottest hours of the day, limit physical activities, cover up in suitable clothing when going outside and make sure the indoors are cool.
Time of India
28 minutes ago
- Time of India
Improving Weather Forecasts: New Buoys and Floats to Enhance Monsoon Predictions in Bay of Bengal
Scientists are set to deploy more drifter buoys and Argo floats to relay more accurate ocean and atmospheric data After numerical weather prediction models failed to detect several systems over the north Bay of Bengal during this southwest monsoon season, scientists are set to deploy more drifter buoys and Argo floats to relay more accurate ocean and atmospheric data. 'We want to deploy them from next year,' says M Ravichandran, secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences. 'What we understood this season is that many lowpressure systems formed over the Bay, but none of the models could pick them up. We can forecast cyclones, but these small circulation patterns, which bring intense rain to central India, are missed because we lack surface pressure data. Drifters with pressure sensors can provide the data needed for better forecasts. ' Part of the Mission Mausam initiative, INCOIS officials say they deployed three drifters in the Arabian Sea and will deploy two more in the next few days. Another 10 will be deployed in the Bay of Bengal soon. This year, the north Bay of Bengal generated multiple systems, including two depressions in July, one of which originated as the remnants of Typhoon Wipha, triggering extreme rainfall in Kolkata and surrounding areas. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai | Gold Rates Today in Chennai | Silver Rates Today in Chennai Such systems have driven heavy spells across central India, which, as of Aug 8, has recorded 7.1% above-normal rainfall: Madhya Pradesh (73cm, +34%), Gujarat (48cm, +8%), and Chhattisgarh (67cm, normal). Former IMD deputy director-general Y E A Raj says that before satellites, ocean observations relied on merchant ship logs under IMD's Voluntary Observing Fleet and periodic research vessel missions. 'Satellite-based remote sensing provides indirect data through algorithms,' says Raj. 'For accurate forecasting, actualinsitu measurements from the ocean are essential.' How do the buoys work? Drifting buoys measure parameters such as surface current, atmospheric pressure, sea surface temperature, wind speed and direction, and transmit real-time data via satellite from wherever currents carry them This mobility is especially valuable during the monsoon, when thick cloud cover hampers satellite remote sensing The data not only validates satellite estimates but also helps detect and predict developing circulation patterns before they intensify near the coast Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
