Navigating midlife: Priorities and program needs of women in British Columbia

This study explored the health priorities and challenges of midlife women (ages 45-70) in British Columbia, Canada, to identify key elements for a comprehensive, dedicated midlife care program.

We conducted a cross-sectional, mixed methods online survey using convenience, non-probability sampling.

An online survey (N = 980) assessed health priorities and concerns, care sources, and preferences for a dedicated midlife health program.

Staying physically fit was the top priority, followed by weight management, brain health, and mental wellness, with variations noted: Younger women prioritized weight and mental health, while older participants focused on brain and bone health. Respondents relied on family physicians or walk-in clinics for care, but reported unmet needs across services, including access barriers, care quality, and information gaps. Key components for a midlife program identified in this study were as follows: (1) integrated, whole-person care support; (2) preventative care and early detection; (3) mental health as a priority; (4) access that fits women's lives; (5) relational, personalized, and competent care; (6) accessible information and navigation; and (7) community and peer connection.

The findings offer insights for developing a midlife women's health program that responds to varied and evolving health priorities through holistic, accessible, and patient-centered approaches.