We may be over 60, but we have a lot of living left to do. To be able to live life to its fullest, it’s important to take the best care of our bodies possible. To stay young longer and to feel good, medical professionals recommend certain tests as we approach our senior years. Some are annual tests, and others may be done less frequently.
Blood tests. A blood draw should be done at least once a year. If you have any serious health issues, your doctor may recommend more frequent testing. A complete blood chemistry panel will test your cholesterol levels, triglycerides, hemoglobin and glucose levels. Blood tests for PSA levels in men provide necessary information.
Colonoscopy. Seniors over 60 should have periodic colonoscopy exams under light anesthesia. Your doctor will determine how often. Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States (www.webmd.com). Seniors have an increased risk of colon cancer. Don’t take a chance. Get the test!
Blood pressure. High blood pressure may not display any overt symptoms, yet it can contribute to heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. A simple check of your blood pressure can alert you to the potential for difficulties. Blood pressure meds taken daily keep the numbers under control and contribute to good health.
Bone density. Women should have an initial bone density test by age 60. Men should ask their doctors if and when they should have the test. Osteoporosis causes bone fractures and could seriously hamper your senior years. No one wants to be confined to a wheelchair, because bones won’t heal. Should your bone density test show that you have osteoporosis, there are medications available to reverse the damage.
Mammogram. Women need regular mammograms. The risk of breast cancer increases as you age, and this test can detect an abnormality much quicker than a manual exam. Talk to your doctor about how often you should have this test.
Rectal exam. Both men and women should have yearly rectal screening to detect any polyps or abnormalities.
Eye exam. There are many diseases of the eye that could affect older people. Yearly exams are recommended. If you have certain diseases, like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, annual eye exams by a certified opthalmologist should be mandatory.
Hearing test. Many seniors suffer from some degree of hearing loss. Have yours checked!
Pap test. This test is important for women for early detection of cervical cancerl. Discuss with your doctor how often you should have it.
Cardiac stress test. Had my husband not gone in for his annual stress test back in 1999, and failed it, he might well have suffered a serious heart attack. Instead, the test picked up an irregularity, and Jim was sent to the hospital for an arteriogram. That arteriogram recognized some serious blockages. Jim had by-pass surgery and came out of it much healthier and stronger than before. If your physician recommends you have a cardiac stress test, listen to him/her. It could save your life.
Prevention is far better than having to go through treatment for a serious disease. Take the necessary steps to keep your body in good condition. You’ll enjoy life so much more!
