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

Men

Over 35

• Cholesterol Screening

Over 45

• Prostate Cancer Screening

(Healthline; Family Doctor)

Other Preventative Health Strategies

Besides screenings, tests, and vaccinations, the top strategies seniors can use to prevent health problems include:

• A healthy diet
• Regular exercise • Getting rest

(NCBI)

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)

Did you know some preventable diseases can develop without noticeable symptoms? That’s one reason why screenings are important. Other reasons to have screenings as an older adult include:

• Might take actionable steps if warning signs of problems are detected • Possibly identify diseases early enough to treat them
• Reduce the impact of some conditions
• Improve the chances of living a long and healthy life

(Very Well Health)

Home Care Tip

Many preventative services, like wellness exams or certain vaccines, are covered by most health insurance providers. Ask insurance providers for a full list of free services seniors can take advantage of.