Does a widow who has crossed the stage of menopause, need to observe ‘iddah? If yes, what is the time period and can she visit the homes of her children during this period if they live abroad in another country?

The basic purpose of ‘iddah is to determine whether a lady is pregnant or not. This is necessary to protect the lineage of the child. Hence in all cases where one is absolutely sure that the widow is not pregnant there shall be no ‘iddah. Obviously in such a case there shall be no other restrictions of the ‘iddah as well.