Top Health Screenings for the Elderly
07/16/2013
Which preventive Health Screenings are most important for seniors
Preventive health screenings are an important part of health awareness for people of all ages. It is especially important for seniors whose bodies become more fragile and susceptible to illness as they age. Many preventive health screenings have been recognized as a cost-effective way to identify and treat potential health problems before they develop or worsen. That’s well known. But which screenings are most important for seniors? Here are the top three. 3 important health screening recommendations Seniors should see their doctor or specialist on a regular basis to receive screening for the following:- Cardiovascular Disease Arteriosclerosis is a condition in which cholesterol, fat, and other blood components build on the walls of arteries, creating lesions or plaques. The American Heart Association suggests people receive a cardiovascular physical examination and risk factor evaluation by their doctor every five years. Two simple tests are performed for the screening: blood pressure measurement and cholesterol measurement.
- Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a disease of bones that leads to an increased risk of fracture. It’s most common in women, but also can affect men. With osteoporosis, the bone mineral density (BMD) is reduced, bone microarchitecture deteriorates, and the amount and variety of proteins in the bone are altered. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women aged 65 and older be routinely screened for osteoporosis. A simple bone density screening test (a type of x-ray) can quickly identify bone loss. If bone loss is found, a person is generally counseled regarding the need for a diet high in calcium and vitamin D, exercise, and hormone replacement therapy. Drugs may also be used to treat osteoporosis. Medicare pays for this screening every two years.
- Colorectal Cancer Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, is a major cause of cancer death in the US. Screening studies can prevent colon cancer. Screenings are recommended for average risk persons beginning at 50 years of age. Compliance with these recommendations has increased, particularly among those over 65 years old who have an increased prevalence of cancer and for whom screening is covered by Medicare. Many people avoid colorectal screening, because they fear it will be embarrassing or uncomfortable. However, the first step is simple: the screener will ask a series of questions to see if the patient is at risk for colon cancer. If risk is determined, only then will further testing be required.