The program provides co-ordinated educational, clinical and referral services for women over the age of 35 who experience complex health problems related to aging and menopause. The program includes Menopause and Osteoporosis Clinics operating out of Outpatient Services, as well as educational resources and workshops based out of the Health Resource Center. These all work together to help move women toward positive lifestyle, nutrition and health management choices.
The program is meeting a growing need. According to Statistics Canada, more than 40 percent of Alberta's female population is over the age of 40. As women move through these years, they are at increased risk for a number of conditions, such as heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, various caners, depression and mood disorders. The hormonal changes associated with menopause can create a confusing array of symptoms that significantly affect quality of life.
When 44-year-old Debbie Knall came to the Menopause Clinic in early 1999, her world was in disarray. She was experiencing a variety of debilitating – and seemingly unrelated – symptoms that were severely curtailing her ability to function in her personal and professional life. She could no longer work; she felt alone with her health challenges and at an impasse.
As part of the Menopause Clinic approach, patients first spend an hour with a health educator discussing particular health concerns and learning more about the various affects of hormone changes for the patient to see the appropriate physician and other team members who can help address her specific health issues.
"It was such a relief," recalls Debbie. "They listened to me, believed me and validated everything that I was experiencing. They understood the complexities and were able to explore the interrelationships between the various issues to find the right solution."
The clinic's multidisciplinary clinical support team includes a gynecologist, family practictioner, health educator, dietician, nurse and pharmacist. Patients can also be referred to specialists in such fields as cardiology, psychiatry, and community services.
Debbie's treatment was resounding success, enhancing both her physical well-being and her spirit. "It made a huge difference in my life. The changes were dramatic and immediate," she said. "There's so much hiding and shame related to menopause, but the key is not to focus on it as an illness. The clinic gave me the tools and support to focus on maximizing my well-being instead."
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