Surrounded by family and friends, Chief Ajayi sat at the head of the table, his heart swelling with gratitude. At 65, each birthday felt like a gift, each smile around him a blessing. As his grandchildren’s laughter filled the room, he thought of the years that had passed—the struggles, the triumphs, the love that had carried him through it all.
He watched his daughter, who had baked his favourite cake and felt a surge of pride. Life had been good to him, and today was proof.
But as the candles flickered, a sudden sharp pain gripped his chest, catching him off guard. The room blurred, the joyous noise fading into a distant hum. He squeezed his daughter’s hand, holding on to the moment’s warmth. As he settled into his chair, a quiet peace washed over him, but with a tinge of regret pricking at his failing heart. He had always been a jovial and optimistic man, and he wondered if that had contributed to his casual attitude toward his health and his constant shrugging off his family’s pleas to go for check-ups.
Thus, in that final moment, he was overwhelmed by this duality—a deep sense of gratitude for his life and the love that surrounded him, but also of deep regret that had he taken his health more seriously, he could have enjoyed many more experiences with his loved ones and spared them heartache.
While we all hope to enjoy our later years in good health, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to make that a reality. Here are some essential health tests every senior should prioritise to ensure they remain vibrant and healthy:
- Blood Pressure Screening:
Getting your blood pressure checked is an easy way to keep your health in check. Get tested at least once a year. More frequent checks are necessary if you have a history of high blood pressure, heart issues, or related conditions. It helps you stay on top of your health and catch any concerns early.
- Cholesterol Screening:
Regular cholesterol tests are key to heart health. If your levels are normal, aim for a screening every five years. More frequent tests may be needed if you have risk factors like weight gain or diabetes.
- Breast Exam and Mammogram:
As the risk of breast cancer increases with age, women need to perform regular breast self-exams and get mammograms.
Women’s risk of breast cancer increases due to factors like hormonal changes, family history, genetics, lifestyle, and reproductive history. Regular breast self-exams and mammograms are essential for early detection and successful treatment, especially after age 50.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening:
Men over 50 should undergo regular colorectal cancer screenings, especially if there’s a family history of the disease or other risk factors like Ulcerative colitis.
- Weight Check:
Monitor your weight regularly, as maintaining a healthy weight becomes more challenging with age. This helps manage conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
- Pelvic Exam, Pap Smear and HPV Test:
Older women are still prone to cervical and vaginal cancer, so even when over 60, you should consider regular pelvic exams, Human papillomavirus (HPV) tests and Pap smears.
- Dental Exam:
A dentist twice a year keeps cavities away. Regular dental checkups are necessary for everyone, but the older we get, the more serious we have to take every aspect of our health, leaving nothing to chance.
- Bone Density Test:
Adults over 65 should get a bone density test to check for osteoporosis, which helps prevent fractures and maintain mobility.
- Hearing Test:
Hearing loss is common among older adults. To detect and manage hearing loss early, seniors aged 50 and above should get a hearing test once every three years.
- Eye Exam:
Regular eye exams, including retina checks, are important every 1 to 2 years to catch vision issues early.
- Kidney Testing:
Once over 60, seniors should take regular kidney function tests. A simple urinary and blood test can help detect early signs of kidney damage.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening:
Older males between 65 and 75 with a history of smoking or a family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm should consider having a one-time screening.
- Diabetes Screening:
Seniors should be screened for diabetes every three years, especially if they have risk factors like being overweight, have a family history of diabetes, and had gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
- Lung Cancer Screening:
Seniors should have a yearly lung cancer screening if they have a history of smoking, still smoke, or quit smoking within the last 15 years and are 65 or older.
- Dementia Screening:
Regular dementia screenings help with early detection, allowing for better treatment and planning.
- Overall Physical Screening:
Annual physical exams are essential for catching potential health issues early and maintaining overall well-being. These screenings may include ultrasound scans to view different organs, such as the thyroid and kidneys, or simply checking vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and weight. Assessments for vision, hearing, and mobility may also be carried out, among other things.
Conclusion
Staying on top of these health tests and maintaining a healthy lifestyle ensures that you can continue enjoying life’s special moments.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations based on your health needs.
For expert advice and compassionate care, @Ìtọ́jú is here to support you. Reach out to us today. We ensure that all our seniors receive regular health check-ups, keeping them up to date with essential tests and preventive treatments.
