Screenings Help Seniors Stay Healthy

As we age, it is important to stay up-to-date with our health care including routine screenings as many diseases do not show signs of symptoms until the problem is harder to treat. Screenings also allow your physician to compare today’s readings to past tests to look for concerning signs. However medical experts estimate over half of all adults over 65 are not currently with the recommended screenings. 

In many cases our age determines the type of screenings we should get. Some tests are recommended once a year, while others, like a colonoscopy, may be based on past test results and/or on the advice of your doctor. 

Common screenings include annual cholesterol tests to measure the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Cholesterol tests can help “determine your risk for the buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in your arteries that can lead to narrowed or blocked arteries throughout your body (atherosclerosis).” Your blood pressure should be checked each time you visit a healthcare professional, and if readings are high, it should be monitored.

Mammograms are important screenings that help detect breast cancer. Current recommendations for women 40 years or older with an average risk of breast cancer is to have an annual mammograms. For others with a higher risk, consult with your doctor. Other types of screening for seniors include annual skin checks to look for signs of skin cancer and bone density tests to check for loss of tissue and bone, which might indicate early signs of osteoporosis. As we age, annual vision test screen for cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Hearing tests can help seniors get the help they need if there is a problem. Talk to your doctor about which ones they recommend you get. 

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Source: bethesdahealth.org/blog/2021/11/09/health-monitoring-devices-and-apps-for-seniors/