In this 2 hour course, explore how the perimenopause transition impacts the functional performance of women in midlife and the essential perspective that Occupational Therapy provides this emerging conversation in women’s health. Update the understanding of menopause, the broad symptoms across all body systems, and the available treatment options (type, formulation, dosage). Recognize the most common aging complaints during midlife and how these relate to hormonal fluctuations and compare to other transitional times throughout the lifespan (ie puberty, pregnancy, period cycles). Explore how hormonal fluctuations may contribute to acute or chronic health conditions throughout life including the interactions of the endocrine, neurological, digestive and immune systems. Explore the benefits of a multi-disciplinary team approach designed to empower and support women to age productively throughout midlife. Highlight the unique role that OT plays in foundational supports for overall functional health practices.

Presenter: Jennifer Fisher, MSOT

Jennifer is a licensed occupational therapist with 20+ years experience and an innate interest in complex systems and integrative approaches to holistic health and wellness. She has professional experience across a variety of settings including school system, acute care trauma hospitals, regional burn center, and outpatient OT sensory clinic where she continually strived to improve the depth of care provided to those she served.

Following her own experience of unrecognized perimenopause and the challenges it placed on the ability to carry out responsibilities at home and at work, she struggled to find information and providers able to guide her through this transition. Recognizing both the depth of misunderstanding and the absence of resources available for these common changes that women experience as they age pushed her to explore what was happening with her own body and mind. She completed her Menopause and Perimenopause Certification through Integrative Women’s Health Institute and is completing a Menopause Coaching Specialist certification through Girls Gone Strong. She has hosted several community events with The M Factor film in an effort to raise awareness and change the conversation of menopause in her community. She is hoping to do the same within the professional arena to expand the awareness, understanding and support for women’s health during the menopause transition through the foundations of OT.

Two FREE CEUs available for IOTA members, $20 for non-members!