hormons in old ages

My aunt is over 80 years old and keep taking hormons.Is any limit of age in women to take this kind of medicactions. I know that use of estrogen and progestin in women age 65 and older may increase the risk of dementia.What is a benefit of taking hormons in old age?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
The main benefit to hormones at any age is to feel better.  Some women, even in their 80s still have hot flashes. Especially if they have been on hormones forever.
The current recommendations as far as hormones go, are to use the lowest possible dose that suppresses peri-menopausal symptoms, and to use them for the shortest possible time necessary.
In your aunts case however, I wouldn' t argue with her.  When someone has reached 80, I tend to let them do whatever they want! I sort of feel like they've earned that! There are also some studies that show that hormones IMPROVE dementia.

I hope this is helpful!
Dr B