A publication for nursing professionals described research on hormone replacement therapy and risk of cognitive decline. 

The study, which was led by Carey Gleason, PhD, associate professor, Geriatrics and Gerontology, found no evidence for negative effect on cognition in women who had initiated hormone therapy between the ages of 50 and 54. 

Those who initiated hormone therapy between age 65 and 79 demonstrated reductions in global cognition, working memory, and executive function. 

Also, those with type 2 diabetes who were on hormone replacement therapy showed a higher incidence of cognitive impairment compared to non-diabetic women on hormone therapy. 

"These findings add to our understanding of the complex effects of hormones on the brain," said Dr. Gleason.

Resources: 

• "Starting HRT in early fifties 'unlikely to cause cognitive decline,'" Nursing Times, July 30, 2018
• "UW-Madison Alzheimer's disease researchers shine in Chicago," Department of Medicine, July 26, 2018