For adults over 65, regular health screenings are essential for early detection and management of age-related conditions. Here’s a list of common and recommended screenings:
🩺 General Health Screenings
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Blood Pressure – At least annually
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Cholesterol (Lipid Panel) – Every 4–6 years (or more often if at risk)
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Blood Glucose / A1C – Every 3 years (or more often if prediabetic or diabetic)
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BMI / Weight Check – At every visit
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Vision Exam – Every 1–2 years
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Hearing Test – Annually or if experiencing hearing loss
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Dental Exam – Every 6–12 months
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Skin Cancer Screening – Annually, especially with history of sun exposure
🧠 Cognitive & Mental Health
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Memory & Cognitive Screening – As needed for early signs of dementia
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Depression Screening – Annually or if symptoms arise
🧴 Cancer Screenings
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Colorectal Cancer (Colonoscopy or stool tests)
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Up to age 75 (or later depending on health/risk factors)
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Breast Cancer (Mammogram) – Every 1–2 years for women
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Cervical Cancer (Pap smear) – May stop after 65 if previous results were normal
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Prostate Cancer (PSA Test) – For men, based on risk and doctor advice
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Lung Cancer (Low-dose CT scan) – For current/former smokers aged 50–80
💉 Immunizations
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Flu Shot – Every year
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COVID-19 Vaccine – As recommended (including boosters)
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Shingles Vaccine – 2 doses, starting at age 50
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Pneumococcal Vaccine – One-time dose at 65+ (or earlier with risk factors)
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Tdap / Tetanus Booster – Every 10 years
🦴 Bone & Fall Risk
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Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) – At least once after 65 (especially women)
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Fall Risk Assessment – At annual wellness visits
🧪 Other Screenings
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Thyroid Function (TSH) – Based on symptoms or risk factors
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Vitamin D & B12 Levels – Especially if fatigued or with bone/cognitive concerns
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Urinalysis / Kidney Function – Based on medical history
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