Post-Menopausal Women Speak Out: A Study Examining Generational Attitudes and Barriers to Wilderness Engagement

Authors

  • Katina Daanen St. Norbert College

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/JOREL-2026-12889

Keywords:

Wilderness recreation, post-menopausal women, gendered fear, age constraints, female agency

Abstract

Much of the knowledge concerning women and immersive wilderness recreation has been drawn from the perspective of a younger demographic of female adventurers. Research tends to reflect upon experiences catalyzing empowerment or is framed as gendered terrain that discourages participation. This study addresses the paucity of data concerning the lived-body experiences of women age 50 and over, particularly those who have spent a lifetime recreating in wilderness since the 1970s outdoor recreation boom. A retrospective attitudinal study was conducted with 22 post-menopausal women, investigating their history of wilderness engagement, motivations for recreating in wilderness, and constraints to participation. Results provide additional insight into the intersection that a lifetime of immersive wilderness experiences instills upon female agency from the perspective of a less-studied demographic. Findings not only affirm the well-documented benefits that wilderness instills but also suggest a generational asymmetry of perceived fears and constraints. 

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Published

2026-04-06

Issue

Online First

Section

Regular Papers

License

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