Oxford Brookes University
Research Page
Senior Lecturer - Sport and Exercise Science (Biomechanics)
A systematic review on exercise interventions with perimenopausal and early postmenopausal women
Falls and balance decline are more commonly reported in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women than age-matched premenopausal women and men, and research has demonstrated that this is associated with a decline in balance. Exercise interventions are regularly used to improve balance but a wide variety of interventions have been proposed. This systematic review and network meta-analysis was conducted to provide a comprehensive assessment of the effects of all exercise intervention randomised, controlled trials on measures of standing balance in perimenopausal and early postmenopausal women. Each of the reported balance measures was improved by at least one exercise intervention. Whole body vibration, resistance and balance training were the most effective forms of exercise to improve balance performance.
Dr Eiluned Pearce
Candidate for MSc in Psychology (Conversion), Oxford Brookes University, Associate Senior Research Fellow, Division of Psychiatry, University College London
Research on alcohol use and loneliness in women experiencing the menopause
Women's alcohol use is changing, and some research shows that drinking behavior in women of an age often associated with stages of menopause is increasing. However, there is very little research focused on why these changes may be happening.
Summary of findings: Research on alcohol use and loneliness in women experiencing the menopause
Women going through the menopause may experience loneliness, which could be linked to risky alcohol-use, either to cope with unpleasant emotions or to try to connect with others. To explore this, researchers from Oxford Brookes University, Dr Eiluned Pearce and Dr Emma Davies, along with colleagues from Liverpool John Moores University and King’s College London, conducted an online survey.
Using data from 801 women aged 40-65 (mostly of White ethnicity and living in the UK), this study found that on average, lonelier women were slightly more likely to engage in risky alcohol use. However, loneliness was not related to risk of alcohol dependence once factors such as mental ill-health were also considered. It turned out that symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress were more closely related to risk of alcohol dependence than loneliness, possibly because poorer mental health was linked to negative reasons for drinking (e.g. to forget your problems).
This study does not tell us which came first, the poorer mental health or the risk of alcohol dependence. Future research is needed to confirm and develop these findings. As things stand, this study suggests that helping women experiencing the menopause to improve their mental health (which for some could include addressing loneliness) might reduce their risk of becoming dependent on alcohol, and avoid the health problems associated with it.
Ethical approval for this research was given by the participating universities. If you have a question or would like further information, please contact 19182753@brookes.ac.uk and edavies@brookes.ac.uk.
Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science
Co-lead of the Trauma Rehabilitation and Musculoskeletal Health (TRaMH) Research Group
Zumba Gold research
Anne's research interests revolve around the benefits of physical exercise on the main physical and psychological symptoms associated with menopause. She is particularly interested in Zumba Gold as it offers physical benefits, such as weight management and cardiovascular health, but also psychological benefits such as a reduction of anxiety and depression. She recently finished a study about the benefits of community-based Zumba Gold sessions in postmenopausal women from the most deprived areas of Oxfordshire.
Research volunteers wanted
Exciting Research Pilot - Menopause and Workplace Exercise
I am writing to share an exciting research pilot that is starting at Oxford Brookes University, focusing on the role of exercise for women navigating the effects of menopause. We believe this pilot study will have the potential to contribute valuable insights into the well-being of women in the workplace.
To initiate this project, we have created a brief survey aimed at understanding the types of exercise that women may be interested in participating in. Your input is crucial in shaping the direction of our research.
Please take a moment to fill out the survey using the following link: Menopause and Workplace Exercise Survey
Access the Exercise Survey Here
Your participation will contribute significantly to the success of this initiative. Feel free to share the survey link with others who may be interested.
Thank you for your time and support.