Oral

Women in the midlife have unique health problems that are frequently overlooked or are not adequately assessed. This session presents study findings associated with health and being healthy in general, and describes factors that influence engaging in specific healthy behaviors. There is evidence that women’s midlife attitudes towards physical activity and menopausal status are influenced by particular social and environmental factors. Two studies present data on clinics with multidisciplinary providers that offer group interventions to improve women’s knowledge of lifestyle behaviors. Another study on high risk heterosexual exposure to HIV/AIDS among African American women reflects on social influences that stem from early socialization where norms and roles surrounding customary sexual practices are established. A final study addresses the resultant strains, paradoxes and decisions that caregivers who are responsible for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease face. Collectively, these presentations address four important topics on clinical, social and life experiences surrounding women’s midlife health.

Session Objectives: At the completion of the session, participants will be able to: Describe women’s midlife attitudes towards physical activity; Discuss the key preventive health indicators associated with a health risk assessment, health promotion and behavior modification; and Compare factors influencing HIV/AIDS risk-taking sexual behaviors among older women, and explain why female caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease decide to provide care at home or in a nursing home.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)