Health and wellbeing in your 60s and beyond
Many women in their 60s and beyond feel they have “missed the window” for menopause support.
While the conversation may change slightly at this stage, there is still much that can be done to support your health and wellbeing.
Whether you are continuing treatment, considering options for the first time, or simply wanting to feel more like yourself again, it is not too late to seek support.
Recognising ongoing menopausal symptoms
Some women, particularly those not taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT), continue to experience menopausal symptoms well into their 60s and beyond.
These may include:
Sleep disruption
Hot flushes or night sweats
Brain fog or reduced concentration
Low mood or anxiety
Fatigue
Vaginal or urinary symptoms such as dryness, discomfort or recurrent urinary tract infections
Others may simply feel “not quite right” without being able to pinpoint a specific symptom.
Understanding HRT in your 60s
For some women, starting HRT in their 60s may still be appropriate, particularly if symptoms are ongoing and affecting quality of life.
The balance of risks and benefits can change with age, which means decisions should always be individualised and made with a clinician.
When prescribed appropriately, HRT can:
Improve menopausal symptoms
Support bone health and help reduce the risk of osteoporosis
Local (vaginal) oestrogen is particularly important at this stage. It can:
Improve vaginal dryness and discomfort
Reduce urinary frequency and urgency
Help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections
Despite this, it remains underused in the UK.
Supporting your health long term
Your 60s and beyond are also a time to focus on protecting long-term health and maintaining independence.
Simple, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference:
Movement and strength
Strength training to maintain muscle and bone
Cardiovascular exercise for heart health
Balance and mobility work to reduce falls risk
Nutrition
Adequate protein intake to support muscle strength
Calcium-rich foods for bone health
Ongoing vitamin D supplementation
Daily rhythms
Regular meals to support energy
Consistent routines
Daylight exposure
A calm, supportive sleep environment
Emotional wellbeing and connection
Emotional wellbeing remains just as important as physical health.
Connection, purpose and enjoyment all play a vital role in healthy ageing. Strong relationships and meaningful activities are linked to improved mood, reduced stress, and better overall health.
This stage of life can be an opportunity to refocus on what matters most to you.
Preventative health and screening
Ongoing screening and monitoring continue to play an important role in maintaining health.
In the UK, this includes:
Breast screening (every 3 years until age 71)
Bowel cancer screening
Blood pressure monitoring
Cardiovascular risk assessment, including cholesterol and blood glucose
Bone health assessment where appropriate
A gentle reminder
It is never too late to seek support.
You have not “missed your chance”.
If you are struggling with symptoms or simply not feeling like yourself, there are still options available to help you feel better and support your long-term health.
Explore further support
If you would like personalised advice, we offer specialist menopause consultations tailored to your individual needs.
You can also explore more guidance in our menopause and lifestyle resources.
Article written by Dr Emma Ginns and Dr Mari Walling, British Menopause Society Registered Specialist GPs, Co-founders of Lemala Health, April 2026
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised guidance.