Influence of menopausal status on physical function and performance: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Women's Health
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Menopause significantly impacts women's health.
• Understanding physical function changes is crucial for aging women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare physical function and performance across premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 210 women.
• Categorized participants into premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal groups.
• Assessed flexibility, muscle strength, endurance, balance, gait speed, and cardiovascular endurance.

Main Results:

• Significant differences (p < .05) were found in muscle strength, endurance, balance, gait speed, and cardiovascular endurance between groups.
• Flexibility showed no significant difference (p > .05).
• Postmenopausal women exhibited impaired physical function.

Conclusions:

• Physical function and performance are notably impaired in postmenopausal women.
• Comprehensive assessments including physical function are recommended for postmenopausal women.
• This approach aids in understanding and managing women's health in community settings.