Understanding Menopause & Dementia Risk in Women with Dr Sarah McKay

12 snips

Aug 3, 2025

In this engaging discussion, neuroscientist Dr. Sarah McKay, an expert in brain health for women, dives into the prevalence of dementia and Alzheimer's, particularly affecting women. She explains hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and their impacts on brain function and emotional stability. Dr. McKay also unpacks the latest findings on Hormone Replacement Therapy and its role in supporting women’s brain health. Throughout, she emphasizes the critical need for social engagement and education in maintaining cognitive well-being.

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ADVICE

Engage Brain Through Social Activities

Challenge your brain with social, physical, and cognitively engaging activities.
Avoid passive brain training; social interaction is key for brain health.

INSIGHT

Social Brain Synchronization

Human brains synchronize biologically through social interaction.
Social engagement feels rewarding and supports brain health and emotional wellbeing.

INSIGHT

Social Isolation Risks Brain Health

Social isolation and loneliness significantly increase dementia risk.
Untreated hearing loss leads to withdrawal and further social isolation.

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All content and media by Project 100 is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.
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In Part 2 of my discussion with neuroscientist Dr Sarah McKay, we kick off by looking at the prevalence of dementia—particularly Alzheimer’s—in Australia, and why women are disproportionately affected.

We also dive into the physiological shifts that occur during perimenopause—specifically the hormonal fluctuations that can affect brain function, sleep, and emotional stability. Dr McKay shares what the latest science says about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): where it helps, where it doesn’t, and how it fits into the broader picture of women’s brain health.

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