Menopause - Taboo or not Taboo…
Menopause, traditionally a taboo topic, is increasingly being discussed openly, particularly in workplace environments. This shift is critical in the context of health and social care providers who support autistic adults, adults with Learning Disabilities (LD), individuals with communication challenges, and those with mental health diagnoses. Recognising and addressing the impacts of menopause is essential for both the wellbeing of our staff and the individuals we support.
Historical Silence and Modern Awareness
Traditionally, menopause was discussed in hushed tones, if at all. Our ancestors may have endured their symptoms in silence, attributing them to general life stresses or being misdiagnosed with unrelated illnesses. In contrast, today's environment empowers us with knowledge, allowing for a proactive approach to health. Understanding the signs and symptoms of menopause enables timely and appropriate interventions, a luxury not afforded in past generations.
Individual Experiences and Misinterpretations
Menopause symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Some might experience minimal symptoms, while others suffer severe impacts on their mental health, self-esteem, sleep quality, and confidence. Common misinterpretations include attributing hot flushes to a warm environment, exhaustion to anxiety, memory loss to aging, and joint pain to nutritional deficiencies. Recognising these as potential signs of menopause can lead to more appropriate responses.
Workplace Support and Awareness
In the social and health care sectors, it's crucial to develop policies and wellness plans that support staff experiencing menopause. Additionally, the individuals in our care often lack access to information and support about menopause, which can make their experience more daunting. Recognising menopause as a potential factor behind changes in behaviour or physical health is essential for providing holistic care.
Enhanced Support for Women with Learning Disabilities
Women with learning disabilities typically experience menopause earlier than others. It is crucial that we collaborate closely with each individual's healthcare team to monitor and address any changes during this period.
Case Study and Findings
A review of our daily records for individuals we support in the 40-55 age group showed no entries linking observed behaviours to menopause. This oversight is primarily due to our staff's lack of clinical training, rather than negligence. With the wealth of information now available, we must enhance our understanding and seek assistance from our local healthcare teams where necessary.
Our Commitment to Improve
~ Accessible Information: We will implement easy-read and pictorial information about menopause.
~ Video Resources: Videos will be used to explain symptoms and available support.
~ Collaboration with GPs: Ensure that visits to GPs include discussions on menopause symptoms and relevant tests.
~ Support Plans: We will integrate a section dedicated to menopause into our existing support plans.
~ Enhanced Observational Tools: Update tools like DisDat to monitor menopause-related symptoms such as hot flushes, mood changes, and sleep issues.
~ Staff Training: All staff will receive training on how to support individuals experiencing menopause effectively.
Conclusion
With the expanding knowledge base, we are better equipped than ever to support both our staff and the individuals in our care as they navigate through menopause. By enhancing the information we provide about menopause, including its signs and symptoms, we empower everyone to recognise and understand what they may be experiencing.
Continuing to break the silence, we commit to thoroughly equipping those we support with information and understanding, presented in a person-centred manner that respects everyone’s preferred communication methods. This approach ensures that insights are reflected accurately in daily note recordings.
Comprehensive support and training will ensure that our staff can provide the best care and understanding during this critical life stage.
Recommended Resources
~ Learning Disabilities and the Perimenopause and Menopause: What Support Workers and Family Carers Need to Know - Booklet (balance-menopause.com)
~ International Women’s Day: The Truth About Disability and Menopause – Enable Magazine
~ Menopause Easy Read | Mencap