Lehigh Valley residents know that Alzheimer’s and other dementias affect a growing proportion of senior citizens, which is why memory care communities such as South Mountain Memory Care outside of Allentown are committed to the care and comfort of Alzheimer’s sufferers. Experts have long known that women are at a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s than men, but only recently have scientists begun to understand the reasons for the disparity.
There are, of course, physical and biological differences between men and women, and researchers are examining those differences to explain why roughly two-thirds of the Alzheimer’s population are women. While there are few concrete answers, scientists are looking at two factors: chromosomes and menopause.
Some have suggested that the tendency for women to live longer than men may explain the imbalance, but this is not thought to adequately account for the difference.
Genetic differences
X and Y chromosomes are threads of DNA that contain hundreds to thousands of genes, which determine a person’s physical characteristics. Many of the genes on the X chromosome regulate the immune system and brain structure. Because women have two X chromosomes (men have one X and one Y), and the genes related to Alzheimer’s are on the X chromosome, this may give women an increased susceptibility to Alzheimer’s. The second X chromosome may be a factor in why women live longer with the disease than men.
Hormonal differences
Another avenue of research that sets women apart from men is menopause. At menopause, the body ceases production of estrogen, a hormone that affects brain function. This leaves the female brain susceptible to memory issues that can range from brain fog and simple forgetfulness to Alzheimer’s. Research indicates that women who experience menopause earlier in life are more apt to experience memory problems, besides the usual symptoms, like hot flashes, depression, anxiety, and sleep issues.
The goal of research
Research on the reasons for the different rates of dementia between men and women continues with the goal of better understanding Alzheimer’s and other dementias in order to find cures and preventive measures.
Whatever the cause or level of your or your loved one’s memory issues, South Mountain Memory Care, with our unique culture, “small house” model, and abundance of certified caregivers, offers you the peace of mind of knowing your loved one will be cared for as if they were our family—which they are!
South Mountain Memory Care is committed to providing individualized, compassionate care to support our residents in achieving a well-balanced lifestyle. We strive to allow our residents to remain independent while emphasizing safety. Our focus is to enrich their life—mind, body, and spirit—by bringing new initiatives into their day-to-day regimen while maintaining the activities they find comfort in. South Mountain Memory Care offers the peace of mind you deserve. When it comes to those you care so deeply about, we understand because we care, too.