Staying healthy as we age isn’t just about treating illness. It’s also about preventing it. Preventive health screenings play a vital role for older adults, helping to spot potential issues early, when they’re often easier to manage. Catching conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes before they progress can mean fewer symptoms, better treatment options, and a higher quality of life.
Screenings also empower older adults to stay independent by identifying risks before they become serious. Beyond the medical benefits, they provide peace of mind for both individuals and their caregivers, offering the information needed to make thoughtful choices for a healthier future.
What exactly are preventive health screenings, and why do they matter so much? Keep reading to learn more.
Key Health Screenings for Older Adults
Your healthcare provider may recommend additional preventive screenings based on your family history, current conditions, age, and any health concerns you have. Here’s an overview of common preventive screenings for older adults and what they’re for.
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Checks
High blood pressure and cholesterol often have no symptoms. However, they increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and vascular conditions. These checks are simple and non-invasive, often performed during routine checkups.
Diabetes Screening
Early diabetes detection allows for lifestyle adjustments which may delay or prevent the progression of diabetes and complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss. Adults over 45 should be screened every three years, or more frequently if they have risk factors such as a family history of diabetes. A fasting glucose blood test or A1C blood test helps detect high blood sugar levels.
Bone Density Tests
Bone health is critical for preventing fractures from falls. Bone strength is measured with DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) scans. This test is commonly used for women 65 and older and men 70 and older.
If osteoporosis (a condition that weakens bones) is detected, your provider may recommend medications and exercise to help reduce the risk of fractures. Ask your doctor about the bone density test at your next visit.
Cancer Screenings
Cancer screening schedules depend on health history. Talk to your doctor about when to get these screenings.
Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopies are typically recommended starting at age 45. The frequency of this screening depends on findings and personal risk factors.
Breast Cancer: Women ages 50-74 are generally advised to get a mammogram every 1-2 years. Screening may continue beyond age 74 based on individual health and risk factors.
Lung Cancer: Adults ages 50-80 with a long history of smoking are encouraged to get low-dose CT scans.
Prostate Cancer: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing is typically recommended for men starting around age 50. The test is recommended earlier for men who are at higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
Vision and Hearing Tests
Eye exams are recommended annually or every 1-2 years, depending on your vision history. Age-related vision changes like cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration often develop gradually.
Hearing loss is common with aging. Research has linked hearing loss to social isolation and cognitive decline. Regular screening is important for early detection and treatment, such as hearing aids.
Hearing loss or vision issues may also highlight the need for changes at home, such as smoke alarms designed for hearing impaired individuals or additional lighting throughout the home. Regular screenings can help older adults and caregivers stay aware and identify risks.
Cognitive & Mental Health Screenings
Memory and mood are just as important as physical health! Cognitive and mental health screenings are often conducted during routine appointments as simple questionnaires. These screenings can help identify early signs of Alzheimer's, dementia, or depression, allowing for earlier treatment or support. Caregivers should share any red flags with healthcare providers, including forgetfulness, mood changes, or withdrawal from activities.
Vaccinations
Staying up to date on preventive immunizations helps prevent serious illness, which helps older adults maintain their independence. Talk to your medical provider about which vaccinations are right for you.
Influenza vaccine: This vaccine is recommended annually, especially before flu season. The flu shot reduces risk of getting the flu and decreases the severity of the illness if you do get it. According to the CDC, flu vaccination prevents tens of thousands of hospitalizations due to flu each year.
Pneumococcal vaccine: The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for adults 50 and older. The vaccine protects against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria (pneumococcus), which can cause illnesses including pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections, ear infections, and sinus infections. There’s specific guidance for individuals who haven’t previously received the vaccine, and potentially additional doses recommend for those who received certain vaccines in the past. Talk to your doctor to find out if this vaccine is recommended for you.
Shingles vaccine: Adults age 50 and older should get two doses of the shingles vaccine, according to the CDC. This vaccine prevents shingles and related complications.
COVID boosters: Talk to your doctor about the COVID vaccine and local availability. The National Council on Aging notes that particularly important for those over 65, individuals who have never had a COVID shot, and those who have health conditions that increase risk, such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes.
General Guidelines for When to Get Preventive Screenings
Annual wellness visits are recommended for all adults 65 and older. A wellness visit covers a range of screenings in a single appointment, with potential to follow up with another appointment if needed. Some screens such as blood pressure and vision checks should be done at least once a year, while others such as colonoscopies can take place every 5-10 years unless risk factors are present.
Common Preventive Screenings by Age
- 50+: Begin colorectal cancer screening and discuss prostate cancer screening for men. Begin or continue regular mammograms for women. Adults with a history of smoking should talk to healthcare providers about CT scans. Begin diabetes screenings.
- 60+: Consider more regular hearing and vision screenings.
- 65+: Bone density scans, pneumococcal vaccines, and annual wellness exams become essential.
- 70–75+: Cancer screenings may be continued or scaled back depending on overall health and expected benefit.
Individual Considerations
A family history of heart disease, diabetes, or cancer may change screening timelines. Talk to your doctor about your personal health history. Lifestyle choices also impact when and how often screenings should occur. For example, a history of smoking can signal a need for lung cancer screening. Occupational history may also indicate a need for additional screenings. Chronic conditions like hypertension or COPD may require earlier and more frequent monitoring.
Talking with Primary Care Providers
Every adult’s health journey is different, so it’s important to establish or continue care with a healthcare provider you trust. They can help create a personalized preventive screening schedule that balances your risks, benefits, and comfort.
When possible, caregivers should attend healthcare appointments to help track recommendations, ask any questions, and support follow-through.
How to Overcome Barriers
Transportation and mobility challenges can make it difficult for older adults to get preventive screenings. Non-emergency medical transport, paratransit, ridesharing, taxis, and community transportation programs can be helpful options to keep appointments. If possible, caregivers can help schedule appointments and accompany older adults.
Preventive Screening Tips for Caregivers
Staying on top of preventive screenings can help you and your loved ones better manage conditions through early detection and intervention. Keep a health screening checklist for your loved ones and set reminders for appointments. Write down what screenings your loved one has had and what’s due, along with any questions, and bring it to their next appointment.
Encourage your loved one to have honest discussions with their healthcare providers. That might mean having a conversation about changes in mobility or sharing a personal history of smoking. Medical appointments can be anxiety-inducing, particularly if your loved one is experiencing new symptoms or nervous about a screening. Provide emotional support and try to attend appointments when possible. Talk to medical providers about how and when results will be shared so you and your loved one can plan for how they want to receive the news.
Next Steps: Making and Preparing for Your Appointment
Consider this article your reminder that preventive screenings are important! They can help you maintain your independence and improve your quality of life.
Have regular conversations with caregivers and doctors about any health concerns you may have. Keep a running list of concerns you want to address at your next appointment. Don’t miss your next screening – make an appointment today if you don’t already have one!
