How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam: A Guide for Seniors

Regular breast self-exams are an essential part of proactive healthcare, especially for seniors in senior housing. As the risk of breast cancer increases with age, staying vigilant about breast health can lead to early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes. 

Below is a simple, step-by-step guide to help seniors perform a breast self-exam safely and effectively.

Know What’s Normal for You

Before starting a self-exam, it’s paramount to know how your breasts usually look and feel. Changes can occur naturally with aging, so note any usual lumps, textures, or differences in shape. As you age, breasts may feel less firm, and skin may become thinner, which is normal. However, new changes such as lumps, swelling, or discharge should be noted.

Visual Inspection

Start by standing in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any visible changes in size, shape, or skin texture. Changes in the nipples, such as inversion or unusual discharge, are also crucial indicators to watch for. After inspecting with your arms at your sides, raise your arms overhead to see if any changes occur when your breasts are in motion.

Women living in senior housing Kirkland may have access to healthcare professionals who can guide what changes to look for during a self-exam and when to seek medical advice.

Feel for Changes While Standing

Using the pads of your fingers, gently press down on your breast tissue, starting from the outside and moving inward toward the nipple. Use a circular motion to feel for any lumps or abnormalities. It’s best to perform this part of the exam in the shower, as water helps your fingers glide smoothly over the skin. Don’t forget to also check the area under your armpits where lymph nodes are located.

Repeat While Lying Down

To thoroughly examine your breasts, it’s important to check them while lying down. This allows the breast tissue to spread out more evenly. Lie flat on your back with one arm behind your head. With your other hand, repeat the circular motions, starting from the outer edge of the breast and moving inward. Apply light, medium, and firm pressure to feel different layers of breast tissue.

In senior living Kirkland, caregivers and healthcare providers often assist seniors in remembering when to perform these self-exams, ensuring that this critical aspect of health maintenance is not overlooked.

When to Contact Your Doctor

While most changes you may feel are not signs of cancer, staying cautious is essential. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice lumps, swelling, dimpling, nipple discharge, or persistent pain. Early detection can lead to more treatment options and better outcomes.

Performing regular breast self-exams is a proactive step toward maintaining your health as you age. These exams, combined with routine mammograms and professional check-ups, provide a comprehensive approach to breast cancer prevention.