Medical Screenings And Checkups Seniors Need Every Year
In-home care helps seniors stay on track with important yearly screenings
Is your parent getting the screenings they need? If not, an in-home care provider may be able to help. Often, seniors living independently skip medical screenings and checkups they should get at least once a year. When seniors stop driving, they may also stop going out because accessing transportation is difficult for them.
In-home care can help your parent attend all the medical appointments and screenings they need. Your parent is much more likely to go to the dentist or other appointments if someone they know and trust takes them, stays with them, and then takes them home.
Having an in-home care provider take your parent to appointments also means that you won’t have to worry about missing work to take your parent to an appointment. If you have limited PTO or no PTO, in-home care can be a huge help to you and your parent.
What Screenings Do Seniors Need?
Your parent’s doctor can tell you what screenings or checkups your parent specifically needs based on their unique health situation. But in general, it’s recommended that seniors over 65 get these screenings and checkups at least once a year:
Annual Physical Exam
Every senior should see their primary care doctor at least once a year for a full checkup. This visit is often called a yearly physical or wellness exam.
During this appointment, the doctor checks blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and overall health. They may order blood tests to check cholesterol, blood sugar, and other important numbers. The doctor will also review medications to make sure they are still safe and working well.
This visit is a good time to talk about any new symptoms, pain, memory changes, or balance problems. Catching issues early can prevent serious health problems later.
Vision Exam
Eyesight changes with age. Seniors are at higher risk for conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. A yearly eye exam with an eye doctor can help catch these problems early.
Even small vision changes can increase the risk of falls. Blurry vision makes it harder to see steps, curbs, or objects on the floor. An updated glasses prescription can improve safety right away.
During the exam, the doctor will test vision, check eye pressure, and examine the inside of the eye. Clear vision helps seniors stay active and independent.
Hearing Test
Hearing loss is common after age 65, but many people ignore it. A yearly hearing check can help spot changes early.
When hearing declines, seniors may withdraw from conversations or social events. This can lead to loneliness or even depression. Hearing loss is also linked to a higher risk of falls and memory problems.
A simple hearing test can show whether hearing aids or other treatments would help. Being able to hear clearly improves communication and keeps seniors connected to the world around them.
Dental Cleaning and Checkup
Oral health is just as important as heart health. Seniors should see a dentist at least once a year, and often every six months, for a cleaning and exam.
Gum disease and tooth decay can lead to pain, infections, and trouble eating. Poor dental health is also linked to heart disease and other health problems.
During a dental visit, the dentist checks for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and signs of infection. Clean teeth and healthy gums make it easier to chew food properly, which supports good nutrition.
Bone Density Screening
As people age, bones can become thinner and weaker. This condition is called osteoporosis. It raises the risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine, and wrists.
A bone density test is painless and usually done every one to two years, depending on the doctor’s advice. Women over 65 and many men over 70 are encouraged to have this test.
Knowing bone strength helps doctors decide if medication, calcium, vitamin D, or exercise programs are needed. Stronger bones mean a lower risk of serious injuries from falls.
Cancer Screenings
Certain cancer screenings are still important after age 65, depending on health history and doctor recommendations.
For example, many seniors continue to receive mammograms to check for breast cancer. Men may discuss prostate cancer screening with their doctor. Colon cancer screening may also continue if a person is in good health and has not had recent testing.
These screenings can find cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Each senior should talk with their doctor about which tests are right for them.
If you or someone you know needs In-Home Care in Foley, AL, please contact the friendly caregivers at Hughes Home Care. We provide quality and affordable care for your elderly loved ones in our community. Serving Mobile & Baldwin County. Call us today at (251) 517-9901
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It is his passion and commitment to providing quality and responsive service that has made their company the fastest growing home care agency in South Alabama.
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He understands that you have a choice of care providers and he will do his utmost to earn your trust.
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