2. Discussion Questions
Why does our society put so much emphasis on our
reproductive years, while information about our post
reproductive years goes unheard and undiscovered
Why is there such a negative outlook on the aging
process?
3. General Definitions
Perimenopause- one-to-ten year stretch which the
ovaries function erratically and hormonal fluctuations
effect many changes within the body.
Menopause- marked by final period, ovaries settle
down, estrogen and progesterone decline to low steady
levels
Postmenopause- the years after a women goes through
menopause and can no longer reproduce. The average
women spends one third of her life within the stage of
postmenopause.
4. Perimenopause
Happens between the ages of thirty and sixty
The time which you go through menopause may be
predicted by the time your mother went through “the
change”
Nine common changes; Heavy/longer flows, Shorter
menstrual cycles, Sore/swollen breasts, New midsleep
wakening, Increased cramps, Night sweats, Migraines,
Increased mood swings, Weight gain without changes
in exercise or eating
Gaps or lower ability to concentrate
5. Myth
Once your periods become irregular you cannot
become pregnant. This is indeed false and this myth is
responsible for many unplanned pregnancies.
Women should use birth control up to a year after
there last period, some experts say even two to three
years after.
6. Postmenopause
“No more bloating, sore breast, menstrual migraines,
back pain, greasy hair, and zits. I now realize I felt like
I had been pregnant for thirty-five years!”
Many women feel a sense of relief and seek more self
directed activities.
Western cultures outlook on youth and beauty can
lead to sexism and ageism. This can make the
transition to postmenopause difficult.
This may lead women to for more extreme solutions to
resist the ageing process
7. Hormone Therapy
Many hormone treatments have not been tested for
long term effects and can have detrimental effects
Some hormones treatments are not regulated by the
FDA
Menopause is not a disease and our society puts a
negative spin on the ageing process
If you are considering hormone therapy consult with
your doctor and look at the latest research, but above
all, you should do what works for you
8. Later Years
Ageism is a negative outlook of older individuals and
the U.S. actively engages in ageism
Our society needs more older role models and needs to
be educated about the aging process because all of us
(“is we are lucky”), will get old.
The new average life expectancy went from 48 to 80
within the time span of 1900 to 2007.
9. Relationships
The family dynamic changes- our place in the
generational hierarchy changes as we become
grandparents.
Social connections have a positive effect on our health
In our later years we are more likely to experience the
loss of a loved one. On average 42% of women over the
age of 65 are widowed
10. Preventative Measures
Many diseases are preventable by acquiring healthy
habits such as; Eating healthful foods, Exercising,
Regular check ups, Engaging your mind, Reducing or
quitting smoking, and balanced meals.
Some obstacles to some of these preventative
measures include; Financial opportunity and years of
exposure to occupational health hazards
11. Myth
Sexual desire and activity fade as a natural, irreversible
part of ageing. This is false, our society views older
women as “dried up”. Sexuality can continue through
the lifespan.
“Sexual feelings often depend more on how we feel
about out bodies and our relationships than our age.”
12. Health Care
Overtreatment and under treatment continue to be
problems within the U.S. health care system
Rates of longevity are inconsistent across racial and
ethnic groups, and income level.
Health care providers may prescribe wrong treatments
for misdiagnosed health problems
Many medications can have adverse effects such as;
increased confusion, and depression
Medicare only covers short term at-home or nursing
home care, long term care is paid out of pocket
13. Planning Ahead
Many aspects of our lives need to be planned for
especially living arrangements and health care so that
you may age according to your values.
Other things to plan for; retirement, meaningful
relationships, finances, and community
Caregiver and long term care planning, Medicare
covers only short term after hospital visits.
14. Legal Decisions
A durable power of attorney-gives someone you trust
power to make legal and financial matters is you are
unable to yourself
A health care proxy- gives someone you trust power to
make medical testing and treatment for you. Speak to
this person about your values and wishes
A living will- describes healthcare treatment you wish
to refuse of receive. May also include advance directive
and DNR documents
15. End of Life Care
Medical science can shape how we feel about death
and dying, rather that quality of life
DNR’s can be ignored and patients given life
prolonging treatments
Palliative or comfort care, reduce and soothe
symptoms of disease while keeping your dignity
Many women assume the job of caregiving for aging
parents or spouse.
