A Descriptive Study of Menopausal Woman\u27s Life Experiences, Stressors and Their Occupational Meanings

Abstract

This study describes some of the major physical and emotional occupational needs of menopausal women, and the direct impact this has on their relationships and overall well-being. The primary objective of this research project was to describe the life experiences of menopausal women and how various stressors affected their emotional, physical, and relational occupations. A descriptive grounded theory method was used to explore the stressors, their meanings, and the women’s unique perspectives of their menopausal experiences. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and then coded and analyzed into key categories. From this information, specific themes were formulated, resulting in an emergent grounded theory. The four themes that emerged from the data were the: physical manifestations of menopause; emotional manifestations of menopause; external contributing factors; and strategies to cope with menopausal challenges. These major themes provided a more in-depth understanding of menopausal women’s perspectives, their meanings, and key occupations. A secondary objective of this study was to disseminate information through eventual publications and presentations to encourage occupational therapists to design and implement intervention strategies to address some of the key occupational struggles associated with menopause. The occupational needs of menopausal women need to be studied further to potentially develop effective intervention strategies for assisting them in dealing with the challenges and changes associated with menopause. The field of occupational therapy is perfectly positioned to be a leader in promoting healthy occupations and lifestyles for these women. This can be accomplished through providing relevant preventative and community-based programming

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