If you smoke tobacco products, quit now. This is the most important step you can take. It will lower your chances of experiencing the conditions for which hormones are used. Smokers are more likely to suffer broken bones, cervical cancer, and heart disease. When you stop smoking, you will gain immediate health benefits, even if you are in your 50s, 60s, or older.
Women typically have a more difficult time quitting cigarettes than men do.
Support groups sometimes can increase the chance of success, especially when using a patch or other nicotine replacement product. Contact your local chapter of the American Cancer Society, the American Lung Association, or the American Heart Association for information on programs to stop smoking. On this Web site, the American Lung Association has information on smoking and how to quit. In addition, mental exercise and varied, stimulating life experiences can improve memory and help maintain stable and healthy mental function. Many courses and clinics have developed techniques to help aging adults strengthen their memories.