The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that by 2060, nearly 25% of the US population will be 65 or older. Unfortunately, for many, the risk of developing chronic diseases increases as they reach this milestone. They also become more vulnerable to severe infections such as the flu.
Thankfully, exercise, a healthy diet, vaccinations, and preventive screenings for seniors can lower these health risks and assist with early detection. The benefits include more effective treatment and better management of health issues. Preventive screenings can also enhance health outcomes and quality of life.
Read on for an overview of recommended preventive screenings for seniors.
Importance of Preventive Screenings
There is an increased risk of health issues as individuals age. According to the World Health Organization, experiencing several conditions simultaneously is also more likely. Common health conditions associated with aging include dementia, hearing loss, and diabetes.
A key factor in managing these and other chronic diseases is early detection. It allows for timely intervention and treatment and can help:
- Prevent complications
- Improve patient outcomes
- Slow or stop the disease from progressing
- Reduce healthcare costs
- Enhance quality of life
Preventive screenings are essential for seniors to maintain optimal health.
Recommended Preventive Screenings for Seniors
How can you determine which senior health screenings you need? It will depend on your age, medical history, and current health conditions.
Your family health history also plays a significant role. It can identify conditions you have an increased chance of developing. Here are some of the recommended preventive screenings for seniors:
Blood Pressure Checks
High blood pressure can have a serious impact on your cardiovascular health. Blood pressure monitoring is extremely important as hypertension can lead to:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
It is recommended that seniors have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. A normal reading is less than 120/80, indicating there’s a low risk of cardiovascular disease and related complications.
Cholesterol Screening
High cholesterol can also lead to heart disease. Plaque build-up in the walls of the arteries can narrow and harden them.
If the plaque ruptures, a blood clot can develop and prevent blood from flowing to the heart, causing a heart attack. When the plaque affects the arteries that supply the heart with blood, you may experience chest pain commonly referred to as angina.
Preventive health checks can reduce the risk of any of these complications. People over 65 should get their cholesterol checked every year. However, you may need to get it checked more often depending on your family history, lifestyle, and if you have certain health conditions including diabetes.
Diabetes Screening
The prevalence of diabetes in older adults is high. You may be at greater risk of developing diabetes due to certain risk factors, including the following:
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Coronary heart disease
Certain medications, decreased activity, and reduced muscle mass can also worsen insulin resistance in older adults. Diabetes screening can begin as early as 35, every one to three years, depending on risk factors. However, people with a high risk of developing diabetes should consider screening earlier and more frequently. Detecting diabetes early can prevent complications.
Depression Screening
Some physical health conditions are often more noticeable, making it easier to focus on screening and treating them. However, mental health challenges can be just as prevalent but often underrecognized or go untreated.
Depression and anxiety are two common mental health conditions among seniors. Regular screenings are important for identifying and treating them early.
Besides a clinical interview, there are many depression screening tools a physician can use during geriatric health exams. The results will show if there is a need for further assessment.
Cancer Screenings
The American Cancer Society expects over two million new cancer cases this year. The country’s aging population is one of the major contributing factors. General population growth and the increase in diagnoses of six of the ten most common cancers also play a role.
The cancers listed below are part of this list.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
The risk of colorectal cancer increases rapidly with age. There are several screening methods physicians use for seniors. These include:
- Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy
- Stool tests
- Blood-based tests
- CT colonography
The frequency of screening will depend on the type of tests and the person’s risk factors. Regular screening should take place between the ages of 45 and 85.
A CT colonography is usually performed every five years and a colonoscopy every ten years.
Breast Cancer Screening
Women aged 50 to 74 should have a mammogram every one to two years. It’s non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, and considered the optimal screening technique for breast cancer.
A mammogram can help detect breast cancer early. Early detection usually occurs when it is small and more likely to be successfully treated.
Lung Cancer Screening
Adults between 50 and 80 who currently smoke should have an annual lung cancer screening. People who quit within the last 15 years or have a significant smoking history, should too.
Screening often involves a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan or LDCT of the chest. It can potentially detect the disease early, allowing for effective treatment and a better outcome.
Prostate Cancer Screening
The screening frequency for prostate cancer will vary depending on risk factors. Men between 55 and 69 should be screened every two to four years. However, a physician will recommend more frequent screenings if you have an abnormal PSA test.
Additional Senior Screenings
There are many other essential screenings for seniors. Osteoporosis screening for women over 65 is one. Other senior wellness tests include:
- Dental Exams
- Eye Exams
- Hearing Tests
- Skin Exams
Seniors should also stay up-to-date with their vaccinations, including the annual flu, pneumococcal, and shingles vaccines.
Enhancing Senior Health With Preventive Screenings
The risk of developing health issues increases with age. Preventive screenings for seniors greatly assist with early detection and effective treatment. However, the frequency recommended for many screenings is at least once a year. They could be hard to track if your family history predisposes you to several conditions.
Morado Southridge makes it easy. We develop individual care plans to meet the needs of each resident. Our trained staff also assists with care coordination.
If you’re looking for an environment where you thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually, contact us to schedule a tour of our community in Oklahoma City, OK, today!
