After menopause you have an increased risk of osteoporosis. You should increase dietary intake of Calcium and Vitamin D ( Calcium and Vitamin D supplements may be necessary for some women) . Stay active and exercise to keep your bones strong and improve balance. Being over 40 increases your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension as well as cancers. Going for regular health screenings is important as these diseases may not have symptoms in their early stages. Screening for diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol levels is important for women over 40. Additionally, breast cancer screening should start for all women over 40 and colon cancer screening for women over 50. Sexually active women should also have regular Pap smears.
Women may experience physical and emotional changes during menopause but that doesn’t mean life has taken a turn for the worse! Many women are prompted at this time to ‘take stock’ of their lives and set new goals. The menopause occurs at a time when women may be juggling roles as mothers of teenagers, as care-givers of elderly parents, and as members of the workforce. Experts suggest that creating some ‘me time’ is important to maintain a balance in your life. Menopause can be seen as a new beginning: it’s a good time to assess your lifestyle and your health and to make a commitment to strive for continuing ‘wellness’ in the mature years.
