Women Into Middle Age Problems

Menopause is a common transition problem for middle aged women

Menopause is the greatest hurdle a woman has to leap in the years between 45 and 60 – on the average it occurs at 51. Both physical and emotional problems are common in connection with the menopause, but by working for fitness of body and mind a woman can do a great deal to ease herself through this transition period. Cancer and heart disease are the major killer in this age group, so regular health checks are essential. This is a time when growing children are becoming less demanding and grown-up children may already have left home. The transition can bring new freedom and enjoyment to partnerships. It’s also a good time to start planning for the future.

Emotional And Mental Health

• Be prepared to deal with an identity crisis. Now that children are grown up and independent, your role as a mother is diminished, leaving you more time to pursue your interests.
• Set yourself new goals. Learn a new skill and a new hobby.
• Discuss your problems and concerns with your partner. Look for positive solutions, and avoid nagging and complaining. 

Margaret Thatcher

Model Celebrity: Margaret Thatcher became the first woman British Prime Minister in May 1979, age 53

Work, Finance And Family

• Reappraise your working life. Are there ways to reduce the stress and increase the satisfaction? Keep up with new developments and technology, and be prepared to delegate.
• Encourage your grown-up children to leave the nest and live independently. Be prepared to help them on their way, but avoid interfering. Build a good relationship on an adult-to-adult basis.
• Your home might be bigger than you really need or want after the children have gone. Discuss the possibility and desirability of moving with your partner.

Mary Baker Eddy

Model Celebrity: Mary Baker Eddy, American, founded the Christian Science Association in 1876, age 55

Fitness And Body Care

• Motivate yourself to exercise. If you’ve been ignoring this aspect of your life, start slowly and build up to optimum fitness gradually.
• Take positive action to combat symptoms of menopause.
• Keep abreast of new fashion developments.
• Assess your body care routine. Be sure you are making enough time to take good care of your skin, hair, nails, and particularly your feet.
• Dress well, but avoid imitating the young by donning teenage clothes.
• Avoid unnecessary drugs and medications. Take positive action, not pills, to overcome problems of boredom, depression or insomnia

Rachel Carson

Model Celebrity: Rachel Carson, American, crowned a distinguished career as a marine biologist when, age 55, she published Silent Spring, which eventually led to the ban on the use of DDT in the US.

Health Checks

• Have a thorough physical check-up every year. Make sure that this includes a complete gynecological examination, a blood pressure test, and a breast examination.
• Women who have been through menopause are more at risk from Osteoporosis, so have your bone condition checked annually.
• Continue to check your breasts every month
• Maintain regular visits to the dentist and hygienist every six months, as well as regular dental care at home.