Reaching 60 is another milestone in an already long and healthy life. But staying healthy requires some routine medical checkups. In many cases, tests become more important depending on your health history and lifestyle, but there are some essential medical checks that everyone should have after turning 60. Stay Healthy Beyond 60 With These Essential Medical Tests. These include assessing the health of your heart and digestive systems while screening for diseases such as cancer. By performing these checks regularly, combined with an active and healthy lifestyle, you’ll lay a foundation of health that will prevent illness, pain, and disease.
The following are the medical checks you need to ensure a healthy new decade.
Basic health screenings
Eyes
You should have your vision evaluated each year. Schedule an appointment with a qualified optometrist to test for significant changes in your vision.
Conditions such as glaucoma can lead to more serious issues including loss of vision. This is especially important if you drive or operate machinery.
Teeth
Dental health is an important indicator of general health. Although routine dental checkups are recommended every six months, some people require more frequent visits. Your doctor will advise you on what’s right for you.
Proper dental care can prevent the onset of periodontal disease, which can lead to decay and tooth loss. Your dentist will determine if you’re at risk and advise you on the correct dental care routine for you.
Bodyweight
Muscle loss and an increase in body fat are common with age. An increase in body fat has been linked to a higher risk of diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Your doctor will monitor your weight as you get older and notify you if any significant changes have occurred. You don’t need to weigh yourself daily, but a routine check is important to your wellbeing.
A deeper level of health
Colon health
Like dental health, the health of your colon affects a wide range of body functions. Although most people don’t consider bowel health regularly, it’s one of the most important screenings you can do. Your colon health can be monitored using a Faecal Occult Blood Test or a Bowelscan kit. A colorectal cancer screening can also help detect any abnormalities in the colon.
Heart health
Cardiovascular disease is still one of the leading causes of death. Checking your blood pressure regularly is essential to maintaining good health—especially now that you’ve turned 60.
Test annually for abnormal levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. Your doctor can provide you with the appropriate blood tests if necessary to provide you with the right protection.
Thyroid function
Overlooked by many, the health of your thyroid is critical to your ability to create and use energy.
Dysfunction of the thyroid gland can lead to more serious health issues, including high cholesterol and chronic fatigue. A routine check of your thyroid can help you determine the right steps to regulate its function.
Assessing the cancer risk
Cancer has affected millions of people around the world while the search for a cure continues. Your risk of developing cancer increases with age, so it’s more important than ever to have the proper screening performed. Consulting with a doctor regularly is the best form of prevention, and your doctor will let you know which tests are right for you.
Women in particular should have a yearly mammogram to help detect any sign of breast cancer. Your doctor can perform a routine breast exam and recommend self-examination techniques to help you maintain your health. Women should also have a routine pelvic exam to screen for cervical cancer. Along with pap smears, the pelvic exam addresses health issues that affect the pelvic floor and can lead to incontinence.
Turning 60 is a momentous occasion in life. You have a lot to look forward to and celebrate as you move into this new decade, and staying healthy will ensure that you still have the best years ahead of you.
