THE HEALTH TESTS SENIORS NEED

11/09/2020

It is recommended by experts that everyone, especially the elderly, should have regular checkups every year. Elderly people are susceptible to many health problems such as poor resistance, reduced ability to absorb nutrients and the body's functions are no longer performing as well as before.

Therefore, the elderly’s health is always one of the top concerns. Building a routine of health check for the elderly will help prevent dangerous diseases and detect them at an early stage.

Experts recommend that everyone, especially the elderly, should have regular checkups every year. Therefore, let’s take the initiative to take care of your health as well as the elderly in your family to monitor the changes in the body.

Depending on family medical history and other factors, the elderly need to carry out related tests. Let’s find out some necessary health tests for the elderly!

Blood pressure check

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, 64% of men and 69% of women between the ages of 65 and 74 have hypertension.

Hypertension is considered as a “silent killer” because symptoms may not show up until it’s too late. It also increases the risk of stroke or heart attack. Therefore, it is essential to have blood pressure checked regularly.

Blood tests for lipids

Low cholesterol and triglyceride levels decrease your risk of a heart attack or stroke. If test results show high levels of either, the doctor may recommend an improved diet, lifestyle changes, or medications to reduce them.

Colorectal cancer exam

A colonoscopy is a test where a doctor uses a camera to scan your colon for cancerous polyps. A polyp is an abnormal growth of tissue. After the age of 50, you should get a colonoscopy every 10 years.

Vaccinations

Get a tetanus booster every 10 years and a yearly flu shot for everyone, especially for those who are chronically ill. Everyone over age 60 also should be vaccinated against shingles.

At age 65, ask your doctor about a pneumococcal vaccine to protect against pneumonia and other infections. Pneumococcal disease can result in a number of health issues including: pneumonia, sinusitis, meningitis, endocarditis, pericarditis, inner ear infections

Eye exam

Adults at the age of 40 is recommended to get a baseline screening. Your eye doctor will then decide when follow-ups are needed. Age also increases the chances for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts and new or worsening vision problems.

Periodontal exam

Many medications such as antihistamines, diuretics, antidepressants can have a negative effect on dental health. Dental issues may lead to loss of natural teeth. Therefore, the elderly need to check mouth, teeth, gums, and throat regularly for signs of problems.

Hearing test

Hearing loss is often a natural part of aging. Sometimes it can be caused by an infection or other medical condition. The elderly should get an audiogram every two to three years.

Bone density scan

Both women and men are at risk for this condition, however women are affected more often. A bone density scan measures bone mass, which is a key indicator of bone strength. Regular bone scans are recommended after age 65, especially for women.

Vitamin D test

Vitamin D helps protect your bones. It may also defend against heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. As you get older, the your body has a harder time synthesizing vitamin D. Therefore, the elderly may need this test performed annually.

Thyroid-stimulating Hormone screening

Sometimes the thyroid, a gland in your neck that regulates your body’s metabolic rate, may not produce enough hormones. This may lead to sluggishness, weight gain, or achiness.

In men, it may also cause problems such as erectile dysfunction. A simple blood test can check your level of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and determine if your thyroid is not functioning properly.

Skin check

The best way to catch it early is to check for new or suspicious moles and see a dermatologist once a year for a full-body exam.

Diabetes test

Everyone should be screened for diabetes beginning at age 45. This is done with a fasting blood sugar test or a A1C blood test.

Mammogram

Women over 55 should have an exam every 2 years or every year. If the risk for breast cancer is high because of family history, the elderly is advised to take an annual screening.

Pap smear

Many women over age 65 may need a regular pelvic exam and Pap smear. Pap smears can detect cervical or vaginal cancer. A pelvic exam helps with health issues like incontinence or pelvic pain. Women who no longer have a cervix may stop getting Pap smears.

Prostate cancer screening

Possible prostate cancer can be detected either by a digital rectal exam or by measuring prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in your blood. Whether or not the PSA needs to be measured and how often it will be performed will be indicated by the doctor.

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