Breast Cancer Screening
The Task Force now recommends that all women start getting screened for breast cancer every other year starting at age 40. This represents a significant shift from previous guidelines that recommended starting at age fifty. New cases of invasive breast cancer among women ages 40–49 increased by an average of 2% per year from 2015 to 2019, demonstrating the importance of earlier screening in identifying cases of invasive breast cancer within this age group. For women over fifty, mammography remains one of the most crucial screening tools available. The American Cancer Society says that women should continue getting mammograms as long as they are in good health and expect to live at least 10 more years.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
All people at average risk should start testing at age 45, so talk to your health care provider if you haven’t started yet. There are several testing options. The third most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths around the world, colorectal cancer presents mainly in people over the age of 50. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk should get their first screening by age 45, and then continue up to age 75. At home stool tests that detect the presence of blood should be done every one to three years or colonoscopy every ten years. Many people don’t realize that catching this cancer early dramatically improves survival rates.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Hypertension – or high blood pressure – puts your heart at risk. It can lead to heart disease and stroke, and nearly half of American adults face that risk due to their blood pressure numbers. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease and stroke, making it vital to monitor regularly. Seniors should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year, or more often if advised by their doctor. What’s particularly concerning is that many people with high blood pressure experience no symptoms at all. This silent killer can damage your arteries, heart, and kidneys for years before you notice any problems.
Cholesterol Testing
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends annual screenings for people over 65. High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease. Regular testing helps manage cholesterol levels and maintain heart health. Seniors should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years, or more frequently if they have risk factors for heart disease. Think of cholesterol as a traffic jam in your arteries – the more buildup you have, the harder your heart has to work. Regular testing allows you to catch problems before they become life-threatening.
Diabetes Screening
Monitoring blood sugar levels is key to preventing and managing diabetes. Seniors should get tested for diabetes every 3 years, or more often if they have risk factors or symptoms. Eighty percent of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, and 50 percent have two or more. Diabetes can sneak up on you slowly, gradually damaging your organs while you might simply feel a bit more tired than usual. Early detection means you can take control through diet, exercise, and medication before serious complications develop.
Bone Density Testing
At least 1 in 5 women older than 50 in the U.S. have osteoporosis, but many don’t realize it. Women 65 years and older should have a bone density scan to screen for osteoporosis, updated guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommend. Women should start getting bone density tests at age 65, and men at age 70, or earlier if they have risk factors. Osteoporosis is often described as a “silent disease” because there are few, if any, symptoms until someone fractures a bone, usually in the hip, wrist or spine. Imagine your bones becoming like chalk instead of strong wood – that’s what osteoporosis does to your skeleton.
Lung Cancer Screening
People ages 50 to 80 should get yearly lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan if they smoke or used to smoke, and if they have at least a 20 pack-year history of smoking. The U.S Preventive Services Task Force notes that anyone who currently smokes, quit in the past 15 years, or once smoked 20 packs per year should start getting yearly lung cancer screenings between the ages of 50 and 80. Screening should stop once the patient has not smoked in over 15 years, or has a life-limiting health issue. Even if you quit smoking decades ago, your lungs remember every cigarette. This screening can catch cancer when it’s still treatable, giving former smokers a second chance at healthy aging.
Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Every year, more Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer more than all other cancers combined. That’s a big reason why your primary care provider will often perform a skin exam yearly and may refer you to a dermatologist. You may be at higher risk if you or a close relative has had skin cancer, if you’ve been exposed to a lot of sun or if your immune system is weakened. Your skin tells the story of every sunny day you’ve enjoyed, but sometimes those memories can turn dangerous. Regular checks can spot suspicious moles or lesions before they become life-threatening.
Vision and Eye Examinations
By 2020, a staggering 43 million Americans could lose some or all of their sight from age-related eye diseases, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. They add that this is an increase of over 50 percent from current statistics, further highlighting the importance of receiving regular eye exams to address any issues as early as possible. Regular comprehensive eye exams become increasingly important after fifty because conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts often develop silently. Your eyes are windows to your overall health too – eye doctors can spot signs of diabetes, high blood pressure, and even stroke risk during routine examinations.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Starting at age 50, all men at average risk should talk with a health care provider about the uncertainties, risks, and potential benefits of testing so they can decide if they want to be tested. The American Cancer Society recommends this screening schedule: Age 50 for men at average risk of prostate cancer and are expected to live at least 10 more years · Age 45 for men at high risk: which includes being African-American, or having a father or brother diagnosed under the age of 65 · Age 40 for men at even higher risk: More than one first-degree relative diagnosed under the age of 65 Systematic reviews and meta-analysis found prostate specific antigen (PSA)-based screening in men aged 50-69 years after 9 years results in small or no reduction in prostate cancer-specific mortality compared to those who were not screened. Furthermore, screening was associated with over diagnosis and overtreatment harms such as false-positive results for PSA test, infection and bleeding.
Hepatitis C Screening
Screening for hepatitis C: all adults ages 18 to 79 should get a one-time test for hepatitis C. All adults ages 18 to 79 should get a one-time test for hepatitis C. Many people don’t know they have hepatitis C because it can remain dormant for decades without symptoms. This silent infection can slowly damage your liver, leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated. The good news is that modern treatments can cure hepatitis C in most people, but only if you know you have it.
HIV Testing
Screening for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): all people ages 15 to 65 should get a one-time test for HIV. Depending on your lifestyle and medical history, you may need to be screened for infections such as syphilis, chlamydia, and other infections. Age doesn’t protect anyone from HIV, and older adults are increasingly being diagnosed with this infection. Getting tested removes uncertainty and allows for early treatment if needed, which can help you live a normal, healthy lifespan.
Cervical Cancer Screening
People with a cervix should get a primary HPV test every 5 years. If a primary HPV test is not available in your area, then acceptable options include a co-test (an HPV test done at the same time as a Pap test) every 5 years or a Pap test alone every 3 years. As for cervical cancer screening, it is not recommended in women aged 65 years and more with three successive negative smears in the past 10 years. For women over fifty, the good news is that cervical cancer screening requirements typically decrease, but it’s important to understand when you can safely stop regular testing.
Annual Wellness Visits
An annual wellness visit is your chance to review your overall health with your doctor. This visit typically includes a physical exam, a cognitive assessment, and a review of your medications. It’s a comprehensive check-up to ensure you’re on track with your health. While frequency may ultimately depend on your age and health status, healthy people between ages 40 and 49 should go every one to three years. After 50, it’s every year. Think of these visits as regular maintenance for your body, like taking your car in for tune-ups to prevent major breakdowns.
Cognitive Assessment
Early detection of cognitive issues like dementia can make a significant difference in management and treatment. Cognitive assessments should be part of your annual wellness visit. You can receive a cognitive assessment anytime you visit your ArchWell Health doctor. The Alzheimer’s Association also provides simple screening tests that you can take yourself or can be administered by a trusted family member or friend. Make sure to talk with your primary care provider about your results. Many people worry about memory problems but avoid discussing them with doctors. Early detection can help distinguish between normal aging and conditions that need medical attention.
Mental Health Screening
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Regular screenings for depression and anxiety can help address these issues early. Seniors should discuss their mental health during their wellness visits. Older adults are at increased risk of developing depression because of life changes, loneliness and dealing with multiple health issues. Mental health challenges aren’t a normal part of aging, and they’re highly treatable when properly diagnosed. These screenings can help distinguish between temporary sadness and clinical depression that requires professional care.
Shingles Vaccination
Shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine: two doses at or after age 50 You should also get the shingles vaccine when you turn 50. The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults over 50 to prevent shingles and its complications. If you’ve had chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in your body for decades and can reactivate as shingles, causing painful blisters and potentially long-lasting nerve pain. The vaccine significantly reduces your risk of experiencing this painful condition.
Pneumonia Vaccination
Hussain notes to ask your provider about the pneumonia vaccine as it may be indicated if you have certain risk factors – like you’re a smoker – or a history of certain conditions such as asthma, diabetes or certain cancers. Ask your provider if you should receive other immunizations if you have certain health problems that increase your risk for some diseases such as pneumonia. Pneumonia can be particularly dangerous for older adults, sometimes requiring hospitalization or leading to serious complications. The vaccine provides protection against the most common bacterial causes of pneumonia.
Fall Risk Assessment
Important considerations to prevent osteoporotic fracture include exercise, fall risk assessment, and screening with bone density testing. An active lifestyle, which includes strength training, weight bearing aerobic exercise and balance training, as needed, to reduce the risk of falls. Falls become more dangerous as we age because bones become more fragile and healing takes longer. A comprehensive fall risk assessment looks at your medications, home environment, vision, balance, and muscle strength. Simple modifications can dramatically reduce your risk of life-changing injuries.
Hearing Assessment
Regular hearing evaluations become increasingly important after age fifty because hearing loss often develops gradually and can significantly impact quality of life. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, social isolation, and increased fall risk. Modern hearing aids are much more discreet and effective than older models, making treatment more appealing. Early detection allows you to address hearing problems before they severely impact your ability to communicate with family and friends.
Kidney Function Testing
Your kidneys work silently to filter waste from your blood, but kidney disease can develop without obvious symptoms until it’s quite advanced. Simple blood and urine tests can detect early kidney problems, especially important for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or family history of kidney disease. Catching kidney problems early can slow their progression and prevent the need for dialysis. Think of your kidneys as your body’s filtration system – you want to keep them running smoothly for as long as possible.
Thyroid Function Testing
Your thyroid acts like your body’s thermostat, controlling your metabolism and energy levels. Thyroid problems become more common with age and can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and mood problems that people often dismiss as normal aging. A simple blood test can determine if your thyroid is working properly, and thyroid disorders are usually easily treatable with medication. Many people feel dramatically better once thyroid problems are properly diagnosed and managed.
Vitamin D and B12 Testing
As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing certain vitamins, particularly vitamin D and B12. Low vitamin D levels can contribute to bone loss and increase fall risk, while B12 deficiency can cause fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage that people might mistake for normal aging. These deficiencies are easily corrected with supplements once identified through blood testing. Maintaining adequate vitamin levels can help you feel more energetic and maintain better bone health.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a dangerous bulge in the main blood vessel that supplies blood to your abdomen and legs. This condition typically develops without symptoms but can be fatal if the aneurysm ruptures. Men between ages 65 and 75 who have ever smoked should have a one-time ultrasound screening for this condition. The screening is quick, painless, and can identify a potentially life-threatening condition that can be monitored or treated before it becomes dangerous.
Dental and Oral Health Assessment
Oral health becomes increasingly important as we age because gum disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes complications. Regular dental checkups can catch problems early and prevent more serious issues down the road. Many older adults take medications that can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of dental problems. Poor oral health can also make it difficult to eat nutritious foods, leading to malnutrition and other health problems.
Sleep Apnea Screening
Sleep apnea becomes more common with age and can significantly impact your health and quality of life. This condition causes you to stop breathing repeatedly during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and increased risk of heart problems and strokes. Many people don’t realize they have sleep apnea because the symptoms occur while they’re sleeping. Simple screening questionnaires and sleep studies can diagnose this condition, and treatment can dramatically improve sleep quality and reduce health risks.
Atrial Fibrillation Detection
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that becomes more common with age and significantly increases stroke risk. Many people with this condition don’t experience obvious symptoms, but it can be detected through routine heart rhythm monitoring during doctor visits or with specialized devices. Early detection allows for treatment with blood thinners or other medications that can dramatically reduce stroke risk. Some smartwatches and fitness trackers can now detect irregular heart rhythms, making monitoring easier than ever.
Creating Your Personalized Screening Schedule
By making January your medical planning month, you’ll mark appointment dates on the calendar right now so you don’t have to worry about it later. I’ve created an easy checklist, based on recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and other organizations, to help you identify the screenings and checkups everyone needs. Please note these are screening recommendations are a baseline and certain medical conditions and health risks might require additional screenings. Talk to your healthcare provider. Don’t try to tackle all these screenings at once – work with your doctor to create a prioritized schedule based on your individual risk factors and health history. Regular health screenings are vital for older adults to maintain good health and catch potential issues early. Our experience and commitment to patient well-being ensure that you receive the best preventive care and guidance tailored to your needs. The key is consistency rather than perfection – staying on top of the most important screenings for your situation can make a tremendous difference in catching problems early when they’re most treatable.
