Preventative Health Strategies For Seniors

As Seniors Age, Their Risk of Disease and Health Problems Increases

Preventative strategies can help seniors live healthier lives with fewer risks.

60% of older adults manage two or more chronic conditions, according to one study. Some conditions that affect seniors are preventable; others aren’t but may be improved if they are recognized early enough. (Healthypeople.gov)

There are several preventative strategies seniors can use to protect their health and reduce their risks, including certain medical tests. It’s important for seniors to have these screenings performed.

Common Preventative Services for Seniors

Everyone Over 50

• Colorectal Cancer Screening • Annual Wellness Exam • Influenza Vaccine • High Blood Pressure Screening • Skin Check • Mental Health Checkups

Everyone Over 65

• Annual Pneumococcal Vaccines • Diabetes Screening • Thyroid Screening • Annual Vitamin D Test • Bone Density Scan • Semi-Annual Hearing Test • Annual Periodontal Exams • Shingles Vaccine • Annual Eye Exams

Women Over 45

• Cholesterol Screening

Women Over 50

• Annual Breast Cancer Screening • Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear

Women Over 65

• Osteoporosis Screening

Men Over 35

• Cholesterol Screening

Men Over 50

• Prostate Cancer Screening

(Healthline; Family Doctor)

How to Keep Track of Tests and Screenings

With so many steps to take for preventative care, it’s easy for some tests to be overlooked or forgotten. Seniors should keep track of which services they have had performed and when. Some helpful methods for tracking include:

• Keep a checklist of annual screenings to be filled out each year

• Ask for copies of test results to keep in a binder

• Grant doctors’ offices permission to share files with each other electronically

• Sign up for electronic health records websites used by doctors’ offices

• Keep a long-term record of screenings, procedures, and other notable medical events to bring to annual wellness appointments

(EverydayHealth)