Many people worry about what aging might mean for their memory. In my clinic, I frequently see women in midlife who fear that their forgetfulness could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. Memory lapses, difficulty finding the right words, and persistent brain fog can be unsettling, leaving women wondering whether these changes are a normal part of aging, a symptom of perimenopause, or something more serious. Fortunately, occasional forgetfulness, such as misplacing your keys or forgetting your shopping list is usually a normal and harmless part of aging. Understanding the differences between normal aging, perimenopausal brain fog, and Alzheimer’s disease can help ease unnecessary worry. Below, we’ll explore what Alzheimer’s disease is and how it differs from the cognitive changes many women experience during perimenopause and the aging process.

As awareness of perimenopause and its symptoms continues to grow, the broader and more lasting impact of menopause on women’s health and longevity doesn’t get nearly enough attention. While estrogen deficiency during perimenopause is often linked to well-known symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, its long-term health implications—such as increased risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and weight gain—are frequently overlooked. Read on to learn more about the heightened health risks women face after menopause and what they can do to stay proactive and healthy.