As we grow older, our bodies unfortunately do not operate the way they used to. A lot of movements that we may have been able to do before might become harder to perform.
These changes highlight the need for older adults to be even more vigilant about our physical health. Because our bodies (and the systems that make up our bodies) aren’t quite as spry and sprightly as before, even the smallest changes can cause pain, illness or injury. This is why it’s important to get a comprehensive check up from a facility that has state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging equipment. This should be done at least once a year to check if there are any red flags that may need attending to. Below are a few things you may want to get checked for.
High Blood Pressure
Having high blood pressure is common among older populations. The heart and blood vessels become less efficient at distributing nutrient and oxygen-rich blood cells around your body due to high blood pressure. When left unchecked, this can lead to a host of different health issues such as arrhythmia, heart attack, and even stroke. It’s recommended that you get your blood pressure checked every year.
Weak Bones
As you grow old, your bones become less dense due to a number of reasons. Hormonal changes are one of the primary reasons why bones become weaker, aside from having an inactive lifestyle. Older women are more susceptible to osteoporosis, but regardless of your sex, you should ask your doctor for a bone density screening. Suffering a bone injury can be seriously debilitating or life-threatening the older you get.
Eye Disease
Cloudy or blurred vision becomes even more common with old age. Seeing clearly is even more important as you age, as your body cannot withstand heavy trauma if you were to stumble or fall. Ask your doctor how often you need to get checked for macular degeneration, cataracts, or even glaucoma. They may need to refer you to an ophthalmologist for further tests.
Prostate and Breast Cancer
Older people are more susceptible to cancer. Men aged 50 or older are more susceptible to prostate cancer, while women around the same age are more likely to develop breast cancer. The accumulation of exposure to toxins and other harmful factors is why older people are more at risk of getting cancer. While screening for cancer should ideally be done every one to two years, your doctor may have a different idea regarding the frequency of your screenings.
Pneumonia
Having a weaker immune system means that your body becomes more susceptible to contracting diseases that may become life-threatening among older people. One of these is pneumonia. When visiting your doctor for your annual check-up, you may also want to request a vaccination against pneumonia. This is one among other communicable diseases that are easily preventable through vaccination.
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