Brain Changes Initiative
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Funding ground-breaking research and providing accessible resources for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) survivors.
01/18/2026
Menopause doesn’t just change hormones—it also changes your brain’s structure and how it uses energy and networks—which can feel like brain fog or memory changes. Some shifts are a natural part of the transition and not a sign of inevitable decline.
APOE‑4 + menopause:
If you carry the APOE‑4 gene variant, studies show a stronger link between earlier menopause and faster memory decline and cognitive risk—potentially because the brain becomes more sensitive to hormonal and metabolic stressors.
Some research also suggests that hormone therapy started early in the transition might be associated with better memory and larger brain volumes in APOE‑4 carriers—but this is not settled science and depends on timing, individual health, and risks.
You’re not alone and there’s support. Lifestyle, sleep, movement, diet, social connection, and individualized care all make a difference.
Sources:
- Boyle, C. P., et al. (2021). Estrogen, brain structure, and cognition in postmenopausal women. Humm Brain Mapp.
- Sochacka, M., et al. (2023). Cognitive Decline in Early and Premature Menopause. Int. J. Mol. Sci.
- Saleh, R. N. M., et. al. (2023). Hormone replacement therapy is associated with improved cognition and larger brain volumes in at-risk APOE4 women: results from the European Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease (EPAD) cohort. Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy
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About Us
Vision: To help Traumatic Brain Injury survivors achieve remarkable recoveries and foster a new understanding that the brain changes.
Mission: To fund ground-breaking research surrounding Traumatic Brain Injury recovery while providing education, awareness, and advocacy for healthcare professionals, families and survivors.
Our Story:
Dr. Matthew Galati was 23 years old when his life changed. In January 2013, he drove back to his medical school in Windsor. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate, leaving less-than-ideal driving conditions on the road. A closure on the 401 forced Dr. Galati and his fellow passenger to take the designated detour route where the vehicle lost control and collided with a tree. His condition was so serious that he had to be placed in an induced coma for three days. He had physical injuries including bilateral pneumothorax, multiple rib fractures, orbital and skull fractures, seventh cranial nerve palsy and most critically, head trauma.
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